ARLINGTON, Va. – Air Force Lt. Gen. Stanley E. Clarke III, the director of the Air National Guard, met with senior-level commanders at a recent Air National Guard Commander’s Development Course at the Pentagon.
During the nine-day course, Army and Air National Guard senior officers representing 36 states were exposed to a variety of issues that can be expected as commanders, explained Air Force Brig. Gen. Marcus Jannitto, director of the ANGCDC.
While most attendees come from the Air Guard, senior Army Guard officers are invited to attend the ANGCDC to gain an enhanced understanding of how the Air National Guard functions.
When addressing the group, Clarke explained the importance of the course and what he wants these leaders to gain while attending. He touched on a variety of topics, including the relationship between the Air Force and the Air National Guard.
“We are a proven choice,” said Clarke, noting that the Air Force placed value and long term investment in ensuring the reserve components could perform equally alongside the regular Air Force.
And that meant a focus on unit readiness.
“They put the money in for weapons systems sustainment, man-days, eligibility for schools, weapons instructor’s course (and) equal participation in (training exercises),” said Clarke, adding that has been ongoing for years.
Clarke said that although there may be challenges to commanders, they need to have a good plan and the right people focused on missions that need to be accomplished.
The course will culminate with a briefing from Gen. Mark A. Welsh III, chief of staff of the Air Force, Jannitto said.