General jumps from one site to the next

US Force Chief of Staff General John Jumper tries out a Hawk jet as WGCDR Peter Speiss, of Air Combat Group, looks on at RAAF Base Williamtown.

Photo by LACW Veronica McKenna

US AIR Force Chief of Staff General John Jumper is a man on the go. He recently spent a week in Australia, visiting four Defence sites.

His visit began in Canberra where he was formally welcomed with an honour guard.

He spent time with CAF Air Marshal Angus Houston and was briefed by other senior personnel about the present Australian Air Force, air capabilities for the future and the current status of the Airborne Early Warning and Control System.

GEN Jumper provided an update on the USAF’s combat status. He also laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Canberra. GEN Jumper visited RAAF Base Glenbrook for an overview of Air Command activities.

He then flew to RAAF Base Williamtown, where he met with executives and members of Air Combat Group and Surveillance and Response Group for an update on their recent operations and future direction.

He also toured the Eastern Regional Operations Centre, No. 3 Control and Reporting Unit and the flightline to view Hornet and Hawk aircraft.

At RAAF Base Amberley, GEN Jumper visited Combat Support Group HQ, as well No. 82 Wing HQ. To conclude his visit he was treated to a ride in the F-111 simulator.

 

.