A seven-member officer panel last week sentenced former Air Force military training instructor TSgt. Christopher Smith to 30 days confinement and reduction in rank to airman first class for unprofessional relationships with two basic trainees at JBSA-Lackland, Tex. A special court-martial found Smith guilty on Aug. 1 for “seeking to develop and conduct personal and intimate relationships with one trainee and carrying on a personal social relationship with another trainee,” according to a San Antonio-Lackland release. His sentencing came two days later. Smith is the third former MTI sentenced for sexual misconduct at San Antonio-Lackland, home of Air Force basic military training. Some 15 former MTIs are under investigation. Air Force Secretary Michael Donley on Aug. 2 discussed the situation with House Armed Services Committee Chairman Rep. Buck McKeon (R-Calif.) and Ranking Member Rep. Adam Smith (D-Wash.) behind closed doors. “All allegations should be investigated, and individuals involved in inappropriate or criminal behavior should be dealt with properly,” stated McKeon and Smith in a joint statement following the meeting. (See also Welsh Confirmed as Chief of Staff.)
Skunk Works Uncrewed NGAS Concept Gets New Attention
Nov. 9, 2024
An artist’s rendering of a Lockheed Martin Skunk Works concept for a potential stealthy and autonomous Next-Generation Air-refueling System (NGAS) aircraft is getting new attention after a repeat display at the recent Airlift/Tanker Association meeting.