That is the overall theme that emerged from the Air Force’s comprehensive follow-on review of the 2009 shootings at Fort Hood, Tex., that left 13 dead and 43 wounded or injured. “Our overall goal is to move toward an institutional emphasis on preventing violence through trained and vigilant wingmen,” stated Gen. Stephen Lorenz, Air Education and Training Command boss, who led the review, which culminated in the newly issued 222-page report, “Protecting the Force: Lessons from Fort Hood.” The report contains 118 findings and 151 recommendations ranging from a renewed focus on prohibited body art to the revision of dozens of Air Force documents and training procedures aimed at preventing violence. The report also recommends developing a “wingman day” with related events at “appropriate [professional military education], commanders’ courses, and other training venues.” (SAF/PA report by Karen Platt) (Report full text; caution, large file.)
The Air Force and Boeing agreed to a nearly $2.4 billion contract for a new lot of KC-46 aerial tankers on Nov. 21. The deal, announced by the Pentagon, is for 15 new aircraft in Lot 11 at a cost of $2.389 billion—some $159 million per tail.