U.S., French leaders share concepts and challenges

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Jessica Smith-McMahan
  • 380th Air Expeditionary Wing

Leadership from the 380th Air Expeditionary Wing (AEW) recently participated in an engagement with their French counterparts from Base Aerienne 104, October 10, 2024. The exchange consisted of a facility tour and briefings to gain insight on shared operational concepts and mutual challenges.

The engagement underscores the value of partnership in an increasingly complex and dynamic operational environment. Both U.S. and French leaders highlighted how understanding one another’s mission and capabilities through information-sharing strengthens the strategic relationship between the two forces.

“The ability to share information and understand each other’s capabilities is essential to building trust and ensuring we can support one another through dynamic situations,” said Col. Paul Sheets, 380th AEW commander. “We become a stronger, more unified force ready to help one another.”

Throughout the engagement it was apparent both forces face similar challenges, all while sustaining operational tempos, ensuring readiness and adapting in an unpredictable security landscape.

“Having partners who understand the same challenges we face — from high operational demands to evolving threats — is invaluable. It’s this shared experience and the willingness to learn from one another that strengthens our ability to work together and find solutions that benefit both our forces,” Sheets added.

During the exchange Col. Kenneth Roberts, 380th Air Base Group commander, stressed that mission readiness depends not only on military capabilities but also on the support systems that ensure their forces are mentally and physically prepared. This further emphasized the U.S. and French commanders’ priority of collaborative efforts to take care of personnel and maintain well-being while deployed.

"Taking care of our Airmen is critical to ensuring they have a combat-ready mindset. The success of any mission is tied to the well-being of our people, and our partnership with the French allows us to better support deployed personnel of both nations," Roberts said.

The engagement underscored that strong partnerships extend beyond operational success—they are crucial for the morale and well-being of personnel. Both U.S. and French leaders ended the day with a renewed sense of camaraderie, knowing that through mutual understanding and support, they can better care for their people while overcoming challenges and creating successes together.