USCENTCOM commander visits Manas

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Olufemi Owolabi
  • 376th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
TRANSIT CENTER AT MANAS, Kyrgyzstan (AFNS) --  Gen. David Petraeus, the U.S. Central Command commander, visited personnel here Aug. 16.

During his visit, General Petraeus briefed servicemembers and coalition forces deployed to the Transit Center as well as talked about the roles they play, serving as the gateway for personnel transiting in and out of Afghanistan.

"What you're doing here has directly enabled all that is going on in Afghanistan," General Petraeus said.

During the briefing, General Petraeus answered questions from Airmen and asked leaders for thoughts on improving the center.

The general had high praise for Manas members.

"You are America," General Petraeus said. "Your actions and what you've done recently in particular, such as helping the citizens of this country, the Birdik School and other local schools, are fostering a great positive relationship between the United States and Kyrgyzstan. You actions are very impressive."

He personally thanked Airmen, Soldiers, Sailors and Marines here for their hardwork and service, and reminded them to extend his thanks to their families too for the sacrifices they make every day.

After the briefing, General Petraeus took time to visit the personnel support for contingency operations tent where he met with Soldiers transiting on their way to Afghanistan. He also took time to visit the transient living area, where he shook hands and talked with servicemembers transiting through, either on their way home or going to Afghanistan.