'Air Commando' command chief master sergeant drops in on 352nd SOG Published Nov. 28, 2007 By Master Sgt. Dennis S. Brewer 352nd Special Operations Group Public Affairs RAF MILDENHALL, England -- The top enlisted Air Commando took time out of his busy schedule to visit with the men and women of the 352nd Special Operations Group during a three-day tour of the unit recently. Chief Master Sgt. Michael Gilbert, Air Force Special Operations Command command chief master sergeant, spoke with many of the enlisted personnel across the group's five squadrons, took part in physical training, conducted an enlisted call, and participated in jump training with the 321st Special Tactics Squadron during the trip. While taking advantage of the opportunity to learn more about the challenges facing European based AFSOC airmen, the chief also answered questions and spoke about the future of the command and the Air Force. "There's no doubt we are in a growth industry, Special Operations Forces in general and certainly in the air component of Special Operations Command," he said. "On Oct. 1, we doubled our number of active-duty wings in AFSOC, with the standup of the 27th Special Operations Wing at Cannon Air Force Base, N.M. We anticipate growth both in personnel and in aircraft and I expect that growth will continue for some time ,given what we bring to the table." He also voiced his views on the Air Force's current aircraft recapitalization. "We have just as much interest in recapitalization as any one else," he said. "In the long term, our ability to do what we are charged to do by our national leadership is entirely dependent upon us recapitalizing our fleet. "Guts and determination are important, but will only get you so far. Our future success will be largely determined by leveraging improved technological capabilities and fielding fresh, more capable aircraft," the chief said. One of those capable aircraft, the chief said, is the CV-22 Osprey. "You've probably seen negative stories in the press lately about the CV-22, but everyone should understand that the safety of the airplane is solid," he said. "It brings new flexibility and capabilities to SOF operators in the field, and it can do it quickly. For instance, if an Airman needs emergency medical assistance, this is the plane you want to get you to the hospital, because it can get you to safety faster." The chief also praised the work of the 700 plus members of the 352nd SOG. "I couldn't be prouder of everyone in this room," he said. "You all are doing phenomenal work in the European theater. The work that the group is doing is vitally important even it if it doesn't often make the headlines, in fact, that is probably the best proof of your success. Every member of the organization should be proud of their contribution." He also commented on the professionalism of all Airmen, and touched on NCO leadership as a key to success. "I'm particularly proud of AFSOC Airmen, when presented with a problem or challenge, they get the job done," he said. "Ultimately our airmen are the proof of our ability to lead as NCOs." A question from the audience during the enlisted all call at the base theater raised another high-priority item -- concerns over inflated enlisted performance reports. "You hear a lot of talk about EPR inflation; I don't really want to talk much about that because it's easily resolved," said Chief Gilbert. "Ninety-nine percent of EPR inflation goes away, if NCOs are fully engaged with their Airmen." He also stressed that years into today's war, there are significant differences in Air Force training and readiness. "There's no doubt we have the most combat-experienced, combat-ready Air Force that we've ever had," he said. "We've got incredibly talented NCOs and young officers running our key training programs. Airmen coming through the pipeline today are not just learning theory, they're learning from warriors who were just out in the fight, looking the enemy in the eye." The chief took the opportunity to thank the junior Airmen attending Airman Leadership School at RAF Feltwell for their service. "Thanks for joining our Air Force at a time of war. You knew what you were getting into. You're here to serve and we're going to give you that opportunity. Learn all you can and be ready."