With the increasing call for Air Force personnel to handle jobs normally done by soldiers, the service has tasked Air Education and Training Command’s 2nd Air Force with oversight for training of these so-called “in lieu of” airmen. The ILO airmen go through Army ground combat skills training at one of 14 designated Army training locations around the country. While the airmen are under the tutelage of the Army, says Maj. Gen. Michael Gould, 2nd AF commander, his staff must oversee their needs.
Airmen basic rarely go on to become four-star generals, but one who did retired last week after a 42 year career that saw him rise from a lowly slick-sleeve to the head of one of the Air Force’s most important major commands.