A panel of command chiefs fielded questions from enlisted and officers alike yesterday at AFA’s Air & Space Conference in Washington. Asked what advice they would give to enlisted airmen contemplating applying for a college degree and seeking officer status, Air Mobility Command Chief Master Sergeant Joseph Barron Jr. said he would advise an airman to pursue a college degree, but he would say hold off on applying for an officer slot until the personnel changes associated with the force-shaping effort simmer down. He and other chiefs noted that they’ve faced the situation of having to cut second lieutenants with prior enlisted service to meet previous force-shaping requirements.
Lt. Gen. Dan Caine, nominee to be chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told the Senate Armed Services Committee that the Defense Department needs to upgrade its electronic warfare capability and its EW training ranges; just as his predecessor said at his own confirmation hearing.