In his first letter to airmen since taking charge of Air Combat Command last month, Gen. Mike Hostage said he will focus on “developing and caring for” airmen and their families, winning today’s fight, improving effectiveness, and “balancing recapitalization and modernization.” In the letter, dated Oct. 13, Hostage acknowledged that the future budgetary environment will require “tough decisions,” but said he was committed to maintaining “dominant combat airpower for the joint force.” He said today’s challenges will require everyone to work together, but “I am confident you will continue providing unparalleled combat airpower when and where our nation needs.” He added, “You can expect from me a relentless drive for excellence and professionalism, the hallmarks of our great Air Force.”
The crash of a T-38 trainer jet this May—which caused a weekslong pause in flights across the fleet—was caused by an improperly installed pin for one of the jet’s horizontal stabilizers, according to a new accident report released Oct. 30. When the pin disengaged midflight, it created the slightest amount…