Q:  Now that the COBs fall under the 8th, does that mean that the WRM mission pieces be oversaw and absorbed by local maintenance shops that are currently maintaining the local WRM mission?

A: MMS War Reserve Material maintenance is contracted out; Requested support will be minimal (MMS)

Q: What is the plan for TMO on moving 400+ personnel.

A: The MSG plan for moving personnel tied to S2P2 is a one stop shop for out-processing, details for the plan and timing TBD on MSG Leadership. 

Regarding out-processing from TMO for S2P2 movers, Members will need PCS Orders to out-process with TMO and can PCS utilizing the below options. 

PCS via Carrier Pick-Up (UB-Unaccompanied Baggage / HHG-Household Goods)
Members will need to coordinate with TMO - Personal Property Office to complete all required documents. Members do not need to login to DPS/Move.mil. If departing prior to clearing their dorm of HHG’s, members need to coordinate with ADL for permission to leave items in dorm room. Members will be required to have an assigned Releasing Agent if they leave prior to UB/HHG pick-up. The Releasing Agent will need access to the members room and will need to be present for UB or HHG pick-up and will sign on behalf of the member. Power of Attorney is not required.

PCS via Postal
There will be no reimbursement for Postal PPMs-Personal Procured Moves. All items sent from APO to APO are free of charge. 

PCS via POV
Members will need to coordinate with TMO - Personal Property Office to complete all required documents for moving household goods via POV. The max reimbursement for this type of movement is $200. 

PCS via Bus
Members will need to purchase a bus ticket via Wolf Pack Wheels. They will use their GTC to purchase the ticket and file for reimbursement through their travel voucher with finance.  (LRS)

Q: Are the maintainers stationed at Kunsan AB expected to perform maintenance on ROKAF aircraft or any aircraft we may be hosting during going forward? What kind of training and education should maintainers expect?

A: Potentially. Primary roles will center on War Reserve Material and Arsenal management. Select positions may require cross-servicing qualifications across multiple Mission Design Series, including joint and international aircraft. All personnel will receive appropriate training—delivered through blended digital and hands-on methods—before assuming any duties.

Under Agile Combat Employment, certain capabilities are force multipliers that provide operational flexibility based on mission requirements. Launch/recovery and servicing operations are particularly critical in this regard. Maintainer certification levels will vary by task—some requiring basic familiarization, others demanding advanced proficiency.

This interoperability capability carries inherent risk that we must balance against mission and force protection requirements. While we would certainly employ these capabilities during wartime, regular peacetime training is essential to maintain proficiency.
 

Q: For individuals in maintenance that have not been selected for the Osan move and have extended DEROS or "KAIP'ed" what does the mission look like for the next 2+ years without aircraft?

A: Our immediate priority is completing the transfer of equipment, vehicles, and tools, followed by facility cleanup and turnover to the Civil Engineering Squadron. We must execute this transition meticulously to ensure Kunsan Air Base facilities are mission-ready for incoming temporary assigned forces.

Once facilities transition is complete, we'll develop individualized assignment plans. Depending on each member's circumstances, this may involve assignment to non-traditional roles or DEROS adjustments. These decisions will be made case-by-case based on mission requirements and individual qualifications.

Q: What will the FGS look like if we don’t have any jets to work consistently?

A: Our immediate priority is completing the transfer of equipment, vehicles, and tools, followed by facility cleanup and turnover to the Civil Engineering Squadron. We must execute this transition meticulously to ensure Kunsan Air Base facilities are mission-ready for incoming temporary assigned forces.

Q: If maintainers have to do 12’s, whole base got to do 12’s. One team one fight right?

A: As MXG Commander, I maintain a 10-hour policy requiring squadron commander approval for any maintainer duty periods exceeding 10 hours tail-lights to tail-lights. Extensions beyond that threshold require individual justification.

Group-wide 12-hour shifts are authorized for exercises and sortie surges. During exercises, I expect all agencies to operate on 12-hour shifts. During surges, shift length depends on organizational ties to the flying mission—not every organization requires extended hours.

I will not request sympathetic 12-hour shifts from peer Group Commanders, as they provide no operational value and unnecessarily burden Airmen. However, I do coordinate flexed hours with DPAD, DFAC, and other mission-critical enablers when operationally justified.

Q: Regarding the new PT standards (2 mile run, PT test 2x a year), will Maintainers have more time to work out in Kunsan?

A: PT failures are not a significant issue in the MXG. When they occur, we develop individualized training plans. The majority of our Airmen score excellent on PT tests, and I expect this trend to continue despite more rigorous standards under the new test—regardless of whether Unit PT is implemented at Kunsan.

Basic fitness is a job requirement. Squadron Commanders remain responsible for their unit's fitness culture and readiness, aligned with leadership intent from squadron level through SECDEF and POTUS.

As Group Commander, I operate under two principles: First, Airmen have no "free time" during duty hours—all time is dedicated to flying, fixing aircraft, or supporting those missions. Second, an Airman's time is our most valuable resource. You are spending your life in service to our nation, and as American treasures, your time must be used wisely. This philosophy drives my 10-hour duty day policy, ensuring 12-hour shifts are deliberate decisions requiring squadron commander approval.

I have complete confidence in both Squadron Commanders to develop and communicate their intent and priorities. Supervisors will allocate time accordingly to meet mission and fitness requirements.

Q: Why is medical declining us from being off the meal card if the dfac food makes people sick? I was told that I needed to make myself sick for 3 months straight in order to be considered. They take $450 out of our pay and i can make my actual good food with it which is healthier and easily consumable for my well being. We don’t make much money here and I have been really struggling with the outcome. This has taken a toll on my mental health. (also tasked to MSG).

A: Medical is not the final approval authority for BAS waiver, however in order for medical to write a statement that a BAS waiver is required based on a medical condition, a documented medical condition, such as celiac disease or ischemic bowel disorder, must be validated with appropriate medical testing.  Statements based on preference cannot be supported as this would also make the member potentially non-deployable and unfit for duty as it is a requirement to be able to subsist on field rations.

Q: Will you all be attending the Hootenanny this Friday from 9PM - 11PM @ The Nest?

A: We attended and it was great!

Q: What is the new leadership team doing to counter act Kunsan’s high SA and DV rates?

A: No significant increase or decrease in the sexual assault (SA) reports in the past three years. The new leadership continues to create a climate free of sexual violence by setting, exemplifying, and enforcing standards of discipline. The leadership is keenly focused on continuing support and monitoring to prevent future sexual assault and domestic violence (DV). Leadership is actively engaged in supporting a change to harmful behaviors and encourages sexual assault and domestic prevention year-round.  SAPR is providing ongoing Face to Face training throughout the year to include Monthly outreach engagement events and unit visits. The campaign is to increase awareness of SA and resources to enhance response. - SARC

Q: Back in the States, we had an interaction between the community and the military members to help out the community, but there is no interaction here. Is there a way to start and bridge the gap between the Korean communities and our military members to help build positive relationships between the two?

A: 8 FW/PA is responsible for managing community engagement events, and we agree that there should be more. Over the past year, we have hosted small groups to receive a mission briefing and engage with an F-16 on the flight line. Additionally, 2-3 times a year, we advertise day-long cultural tours off-base for members to participate in. This fall, we are actively planning to invite community groups to visit Kunsan more frequently and seek out opportunities for Wolf Pack personnel to get off base and get engaged. If you have any ideas, please feel free to contact us. - PA 

Q: The buzz words ‘legacy’ and ‘heritage’ are constantly brought up regarding the Wolf Pack, however, where can one learn of the legacy and heritage? I recently tried to seek out the base historian, and learned Kunsan does not have one. Are there any initiatives to make the Wolf Pack’s legacy and heritage for accessibly known?

A: There are initiatives to mobilize the Wolf Pack’s heritage! For example, the 8th Operational Support Squadron recently hosted a “Crud” Tourney, where they explained how to play a game that is common in the pilot community to expand knowledge to the rest of the Wolf Pack. There are other initiatives in development over the coming months to preserve and promote our heritage, and we look forward to sharing more soon. The Seventh Air Force Historian services the 8th Fighter Wing – Mr. Michael Stephen can be reached at DSN: 784-4991. - PA

Q: Will there be a re-eval event 30 days after of the new community standards go into effect to assess if they are achieving the desired effects of not?

A: Not necessarily a re-eval event at a specific time, but there is always an opportunity to update policy as the environment & situation changes. Could be because a policy/rule isn't achieving the desired effect, or has caused unintended side effects. - WOLF 

Q: Chief, are you taking advantage of the ODR or CAC tours while here?

A: I have not yet, but I will. I'm looking forward to the ski trips this winter! - WOLF CHIEF

Q: Do we still have to wait to the end of each month to PCS? Since most of us won’t have a turnover at Kunsan due to the super squadron, will the policy on departing before the last 10 days of the month change?

A: For Super Squadron Phase 2 PCS's, no. The specific PCS timing will be driven by mission requirements at Osan. For normal rotation PCS's, yes - no change to AFPC policy there. - WOLF

Q: Why does this change come now? When the US is preparing for potential conflict with other global super powers. Why is there constant changes now. There have been changes to the way MX operates, and now the way this base operates, seems like poorly timed changes.

A: Evolving character of war dictates that the nature of warfare is always changing, demanding new approaches to training, technology, and operational concept. Embracing change is not a choice, it is a necessity. Change is part of military life. The changes at Kunsan have been in the works for a few years now.  Super Squadron Phase One (S2P1) first started last year when we sent F-16s to Osan. Super Squadron Phase Two (S2P2) is currently on going. We just took on the Collocated Operating Bases (COBs) to further robust their capabilities. We will continue to work as a Wolf Pack team to make improvements and change as the situation and circumstances dictate.  

Q: Will we still be getting a steady rotation of personnel to fill vacant spots?

A: To support an on-time start for the Super Squadron Phase 2 test, Air Force Personnel Center is strategically diverting talent from bases across the globe to Osan. As a result, the initial assessment of personnel departing Kunsan for the test has shrunk from approximately 300 to approximately 60. These 60 Airmen will see assignments to Osan loaded as a “Continuation of Tour,” to preserve their original DEROS and follow-on assignments. AFPC will fill positions as needed. Many billets (spots) will move from Kunsan to Osan, meaning their backfills will flow to Osan as well. Keep in mind the Basing Action process is still underway, and is pre-decisional. We are still in a Test phase for now. - WOLF

Q: Wolf-Chief, I see you’re a golfer. What is your handicap and how far do you hit your 6 iron (carry not total distance)?

A:  From the red tees, my handicap is about 11. From the whites, it is around 14-15. I don't have a 6 iron in the bag, but I do have a 6 hybrid. That carries about 150 yds. My 5 iron carries about 150. Come see for yourself! - WOLF CHIEF

Q: I imagine this moves comes with significant changes to unit METLs and Doc statements. Can you explain the process here? Are MAJCOM functionals making amendments already? Is there a timeline?

A: That process will happen after the final Basing Action decision, when we have an answer on whether the Test will become permanent. - WOLF

Q: Are there any additional opportunities to offer our efforts to the s2p2 where we can get additional exposure to the Wing? Planning, projects, etc.

A: Yes! Lots of ways to get involved in Wing initiatives. Our Heritage OPT lead is Maj  McKay McLaren (mckay.mclaren.1@us.af.mil) Our Quality of Life Task Force lead is Lt Jacob Oesterle (jacob.oesterle.1@us.af.mil). We are often looking for POCs to take charge of Wing-wide events - let your supervisor know you're hungry for more of those opportunities, and encourage them to submit your name for consideration! - WOLF

Q: What does the P in S2P2 stand for?

A: The Full Acryomn for S2P2 is "Super Squadron Phase 2". We are moving into Phase 2 of the Super Squadron test. 

Q: What's the way forward for the people remaining here. What's the new mission and ops tempo projected to look like? Are there any plans to bring a new squadron to Kunsan in the future?

A: Our mission does not change; we will still Defend the Base; Accept Follow on Forces; Take the Fight North;  Develop the Team & Connect to Heritage. In the short term, you'll see even more transient forces here - aircraft will base here to participate in exercises (flying exercises and base-wide ATSO exercises), and rotational forces will stage out of Kunsan. In the long term, there's always a possibility of permanently assigned aircraft. 

Q: The new Korean president expressed his disdain towards US presence here, what will that look like for us in the future?

A: We are guests in the Republic of Korea, and as such, it would be inappropriate to speculate on political matters under discussion. However, our mission of defense has not changed, and we must continue our work to protect the security, freedom, and prosperity for the U.S and our ROK allies. - PA

Q: Why does the local population occasionally protest our presence, when without it North Korea would not hesitate to “reunite” the one Korea?

A: The Republic of Korea is a vibrant democracy, where citizens have freedom of speech and assembly - they're exercising their rights to express an opinion! - WOLF

Q: If Osan is going to become a normal assignment, is that also the future for Kunsan?

A: In the long term, we may see tour normalization and other changes that make Kunsan and Osan more similar. 8 FW leadership is investigating the actions we should take now to prepare for and achieve that future. - PA

Q: Was it said earlier in the brief that we are going to have a two week-long exercise? If so, why will we need to do that and what will it look like?

A: The two-week exercise is FREEDOM FLAG, a flying exercise similar to RED FLAG. Other units will bring aircraft to Kunsan; we'll brief and debrief and mission plan here. It will provide great US-Korea bilateral flying training. It will NOT be an "exercise" for the rest of the base. The rest of the base might simply see different types of aircraft taking off, or a few more people in the BX at lunchtime. - WOLF

Q:  What does ADCON look like during S2P2, specifically, who is the senior rater for the folks going to Osan (EFDP, strats, demotion authority, etc)?

A: Airmen moving from within 8 MSG will become part of 51 MSG; same with 8 MDG people who PCS to 51 MDG. At some point in the next couple months (working on specific timing with AFPC), the 35 FS will transfer to the 51 OG and the 35 FGS will transfer to the 51 MXG. 

Q: Can we look into approving single ear wear headphones while walking around. Also can we revisit what are authorized locations for headphone use outside of gym. Why can’t we wear headphones when in civilian clothes? Regarding the rumors of banning Bluetooth in civilian clothes. If true, could we revisit allowing 1? Huge boost to morale while maintaining safety?

A: Headphone wear is not authorized on roadways (except cross walks). They're also never authorized while riding a bike, scooter, or driving a vehicle. And they're not authorized while WALKING in uniform. See Community Standards para. 2.3.2 for details. The roadway rule is a safety concern; the rule about earbuds in uniform is to make sure people are spring-loaded to greet each other in uniform and render appropriate customs and courtesies rather than being lost in their own world. Always open to reconsider as the situation changes or we learn (data-driven evidence is helpful!), but for now the standards say NO headphones/earbuds while walking in uniform, and NO headphones/earbuds on roadways. - WOLF

Q: What would you DoooOOOoooo for a Klondike bar?

A: I'm more a fan of mint chocolate chip ice cream! - WOLF

Q: Is the 2100 all call set up because you wanted wing Wednesday

A: Haha! I do love Wing Wednesday! Actually the 2100 Wolf Call was to accommodate our Airman not working day shift and not interrupt their sleep schedules. We're also offering a 2100 Road to War brief before Wing exercises for the same reason. -WOLF

Q: Can we please have the OTS results!!!!! Thank you in advance. Other / Misc 37 OTS results? when are we going to get those results released?

A: The OTS results just came out. I hope you were selected or know someone who was!

Q: Will there be time in the work day to do group PT?

A: Not tracking any changes in AFIs; unit leadership has the best visibility on how to structure the work day for their people. 

Q: Will the community standards and policies change? For example members to PCS after the 20th of their DEROS month.

A: Community Standards have been updated and published. “8th Fighter Wing Permanent Change of Station Arrival and Departure Policy”  remains in place. 

Q: Jersey fridays? What possibilities do we have for Jersey Fridays/ Morale Shirt wear

A: Jersey Fridays will not be returning for the workday. However, we love the jersey cutlure and will authorize jerseys at celebrations and special events. You'll see the Wolf Triad in jerseys whenever they're authorized. - WOLF

Q: Why do we exercise so often so hard, when once a quarter would suffice?  What makes you say once a quarter would suffice? What do you think the purpose of the exercises are, and how do you know we can meet those goals in one exercise a quarter? With the mass amount of people moving to Osan, do we still need 4-5 exercises a year!??? How will our exercises be affected by the moves to Osan is it a priority to move the aircraft first or do both and be prepared with the exercises?

A: We use the word "exercise" a lot...sometimes it means a full week-long base level exercise (in chem gear, etc.). Sometimes it means a flying exercise (like RED FLAG or FREEDOM FLAG). Sometimes it's a couple hours (typhoon prep exercise, or active shooter exercise). We'll do a better job messaging that so it's clear. We have a major wing-wide week-long exercise in August, and then no more of those scheduled for the rest of this calendar year. More to follow on the long-term plan for the rest of the year.  We are constantly adjusting our exercises based on the threat and our OPLAN taskings, and based on what we learn/what areas we need to work on. We'lll keep the communication flowing about the exercise objectives and long-term plan - you can expect to hear that in the ROAD TO WAR briefs at a minimum. -WOLF

 

Q: How would you, Wolf 2 and other assigned pilots here (if any) keep their flight hours when the jets are in Osan.

A: Kunsan F-16 assigned pilots will maintain flight currency and proficiency by periodically going TDY to Osan. They will also fly Osan jets here when they practice flying out of Kunsan, and utilize the simulators at Kunsan.  

Q: Is there a possibility that Kunsan will take on an ISR posture?

A: With the movement of F16s from Kunsan to Osan, the 8 FW will continue to operate as a primary exercise and rotational force bed-down location for U.S. air component forces in ROK.  It will maintain active flightline operations and facilities, in addition to maintianin war reserve material and munitions at multiple locations across South Korea. The key takeaway is Kunsan will remain capable of accepting any kind of follow-on force.

Q: What are the key ways Kunsan AB is enhancing interoperability with the Republic of Korea Air Force and our joint partners to ensure seamless operations in contingencies?

A: The 8 FW remains committed to ensuring peace and security on the Korean Peninsula. We will continue to support ROKAF missions at Kunsan and be ready to integrate with any joint partner. Kunsan will host a Flag level exercise in the fall known as Freedom Flag. During this week, joint and allied partners will participate in a week long flying exercise demonstrating robust interoperability needed to project airpower anywhere.