KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- Col. Tad “Wolf” Clark and Chief Master Sgt. Steve “Wolf Chief” Cenov hosted their first commander’s call to relay the wing priorities to members of the Wolf Pack, July 26.
The new 8th Fighter Wing commander and command chief started the all call by showing family photos and sharing personal stories to demonstrate that they also experience the highs and lows of being separated from their loved ones.
“These are the types of things I want you to see and hear,” said Clark. “We’re all human, we all have ups and downs, highs and lows, periods of organization and times of chaos. We’re are all in this together.”
Clark and Cenov then shared the wing’s three enduring priorities that they want to focus on while here.
“While our enduring priorities are mission, team and heritage, our mission statement remains unchanged,” said Cenov. “If you go to a different base, your mission statement might change between new and old wing commanders, but our mission statement is enduring.”
During the commander’s call, they introduced five lines of effort that reflect the objectives the wing will focus on this year; readiness, upgrading and maintaining critical infrastructure, developing the team, caring for the Wolf Pack and inspiring creativity and innovation.
“We want to seize every opportunity we have to invest in your time, education and professional development,” said Clark. “We care about you and want to see you succeed. There are countless perspectives, ideas and technical skillsets represented in this auditorium and it is our responsibility to cultivate that. We want to build thinkers and leaders. This will increase our effectiveness in the Wolf Pack, as well as, future squadrons, groups and wings you’ll transition to when you depart Kunsan. We have the responsibility of increasing readiness across the Air Force.”
They also used the time to address some of the concerns Airmen currently face around base.
“We are aware that there are quality-of-life issues with the elevators and [heating, ventilation and air conditioning] that you are dealing with,” Clark said. “We have pulled a team together, discussed our options and have made decisions to create solutions. We care, we mean what we say, and we are getting after it.”
After defining their objectives for the rest of the year, they opened the floor to questions. One question Cenov answered was about how the recent change in curfew has impacted the mission.
“We are doing great thus far,” Cenov said. “Our 8th Fighter Wing Team, the Wolf Pack, hasn’t had any underage drinking, any disorderly conduct or any disciplinary issues. We are proud of you all for that. Everyone here has been taking care of each other.”
Clark and Cenov closed by reminding everyone of the unique comradery that is only found at the Wolf Pack.
“There is a family you’re born into, and a family you are sworn into,” said Clark. “We, members of the Wolf Pack are family. You are here for a purpose, you make a difference, you are important and we will succeed together.”