Search News

Cannon News

AFSOC Commander visits Cannon

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Whitney Amstutz
  • 27th Special Operations Wing Public Affairs
CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  Newly-appointed Air Force Special Operations Command commander, Lt. Gen. Brad Heithold, is wasting no time getting familiar with the mission, people and inner workings of the 27th Special Operations Wing.

His second visit since his appointment less than two months ago, Heithold, accompanied by Col. Tony Bauernfeind, 27 SOW commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Paul Henderson, 27 SOW command chief, kicked off his two-day stay with a breakfast during which he had the opportunity to meet with chief master sergeants and first sergeants who call Cannon Air Force Base, New Mexico, home.

After becoming better acquainted with the people who facilitate mission accomplishment at Cannon, he then embarked on a tour showcasing several military construction projects currently underway at the 27 SOW.

Following the tour, which highlighted improvements to the waste water treatment plant, military working dog facility and developments on Cannon's Southeast side, Heithold met with members of the 27th Special Operations Group for an in-depth look at flightline operations at Cannon.

During his visit to flying operations, Heithold got the opportunity to become better acquainted with people who make the mission happen and ensure combat ready forces get to the fight. After he received the run-down on operational and maintenance aspects of flying operations, CV-22 Osprey personnel and capabilities stepped into the spotlight.

The general closed out day one of his visit with a tour of Melrose Air Force Range, New Mexico, and returned just in time to board an AC-130W Stinger II and circle back to the range for live fire drills.

Already having expressed his interest in Cannon's unique capabilities and Airmen during his initial visit to the 27 SOW, Heithold will have the opportunity to delve even deeper into what makes Cannon a pivotal part of the AFSOC mission during the second leg of his tour.

Press Releases