AETC leader meets with Thunderbolts Published Aug. 7, 2009 By Airman 1st Class Melanie Iannaggi and Justin Oakes 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- Command Chief Master Sergeant Robert Tappana, Air Education and Training Command, visited Luke Air Force Base July 28 - Aug. 1, and met with several groups around the base in order to get a first-hand view of Luke's mission. "When I visit a base, I always enjoy meeting with the Airmen," Chief Tappana said. "It allows me to see how the mission happens and to thank them for all their hard work. It also gives me the opportunity to find out what's on their mind and help remove any obstacles in the way of their success." The primary topics of discussion focused on the new fitness program, uniform changes and the enlisted performance report system. "Supervisors need to give honest and accurate feedback and must hold Airmen accountable for their actions," Chief Tappana said. The command chief also emphasized the health of individual Airmen directly contributes to the overall success of the mission. "It is crucial that everyone takes care of themselves and makes good choices," he said. "We need to stay balanced. When things get difficult in one area of our lives, and we ignore it, we get in trouble." "Not only is it important to go to the gym and stay in good physical shape, but it's critical to stay in good shape emotionally, mentally and spiritually," Chief Tappana said. "It is also important to make sure family life is functioning well and to maintain financial stability." The chief recognized Luke's mission and praised 56th FW Airmen for demonstrating positive attitudes while contributing to the overall success of the base.