On the other hand, AFMC chief Gen. Bruce Carlson says Materiel Command has been told to shed some 3,000 military personnel, which it has in far fewer numbers than civilians. (See above.) Many of the command’s military comprise critical base specialties, such as firefighters and civil engineers, without which he says, “I can’t keep the base open.” Carlson revealed that he’s considering letting go more civilian slots to save some key military personnel. He asserted, “The Chief [of Staff] and the Secretary and I know we’re not going to get this right the first time.” However, he added that they think there’s enough “flex” to get things about right and adjust if needed.
The 301st Fighter Wing in Fort Worth, Texas, became the first standalone Reserve unit in the Air Force to get its own F-35s, welcoming the first fighter Nov. 5.