Top JASDF general visits Columbus AFB Published March 1, 2007 By Senior Airman John Parie 14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs COLUMBUS AFB, Miss. -- The head of Japanese Air Self Defense Force Air Training Command visited Columbus AFB Wednesday, Feb. 28. Lieutenant Gen.Osamu Arano, Air Training Command commander, was given an insidelook at Columbus Air Force Base pilot training operations and support functions. Upon arrival, he received a 14th Flying Training Wing mission briefing, followed by tours of flying training squadrons. Later, the general ate lunch with CAFB senior leadership and eight Japanese officers in pilot training. "It was an honor to host the general," said Col. Eric Theisen, 14th Operations Group commander. "It gave him a chance to see and experience first-hand the 14-year-old partnerships we are continuing to develop between our air forces." "This is the third base I have visited on my tour," said General Arano. "All of the bases fall under General William Looney, and the leadership he has put in place has all been great." the general, an experienced pilot with more than 2,000 flying hours in the F-4EJ Phantom and F-15J, was treated to a red carpet tour of the training aircraft simulators and aircraft static displays on the flightline. "I was very impressed by well appointed training facility instructors and staff, said General Arano. "The base has a lot of great training facilities, but the greatest part is not the training; but the nature in which these people accept not only Japanese students, but students from all over the world." General Arano started Thursday with a visit to the Airmen and Family Readiness Center, followed by a tour of RAPCON and ended with a tour of base security forces facilities. "I find the JASDF/U.S. Air Force relationship indispensable," he said. "The JASDF specialized undergraduate pilot training students that have since returned to Japan are making significant contributions and are playing an active role in coalition efforts." "I am sure they will continue this tradition," he said. "The JASDF personnel not only receive (pilot training) here, but they are better prepared as officers to interact with people from other countries and cultures." General Arano concluded his visit at Columbus AFB Thursday and departed for the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo.