Wolf Pack welcomes Wolf 36, CMSAF

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Jessica Haas
  • 8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  The Wolf Pack welcomed back Gen. Mark A. Welsh III, Kunsan's 36th Wolf, to the base Aug. 23 and 24, his first official visit to the region as Air Force chief of staff.

Welsh was accompanied by his wife, Betty, Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force James A. Cody, and Cody's wife, retired Chief Master Sgt. Athena Cody, as part of a two-week tour of the Pacific region, which started earlier this week.

"We only really have one reason to be here - and that's to say thank you for everything you do and everything you've done since the day you put on that uniform," Welsh said at the Airman's call. "Thanks for taking the oath and thanks for agreeing to serve, and thanks for serving in tough places."

The general said he didn't believe Kunsan to be a tough location to be in, although others may think so before even arriving.

"It was pretty sobering to meet Wolf 53 yesterday because I was Wolf 36," said Welsh. "Kunsan is one of those places where once you arrive, it's quick to realize how great of a place it actually is."

Welsh continued the call highlighting the important role every Airman plays and the significance of them being able to see where they fit in. He asked a young Airman in the audience who was more important - the Airman or Welsh?

Hesitantly, the Airman's answer to the Chief of Staff was the most important - and without missing a beat Welsh corrected the Airman by saying the Airman was in fact more important.

"For the rest of your career, and as long as you're wearing that uniform, don't you ever forget that," the general said to the weapons loader. "No matter what you're doing, no matter what job you're in, no matter how important you think you are or are not, remember that you're the most important person in this Air Force - everybody else in this room should feel the same."

Cody continued on to say it takes everyone to get the job done.

"I can't tell you how proud I am to be here," said Cody. "From the minute I got off the plane, I could tell just how focused each and every Airmen is to be ready for the fight tonight, if needed. The enthusiasm and professionalism displayed while you all do your job here is just amazing."

Finally, Welsh and Cody commented on the importance of family, as well as what it means to the Air Force.

"I have a very broad definition of family," said Cody. "I know that General Welsh, Betty, Athena and I all think of you as family - and that's how you should treat each other. Family sticks together and looks out for each other."

During their visit, Welsh and Cody also listened to Wolf Pack Airmen on the opportunities and challenges of life in the Pacific region.