Under Secretary of the Air Force visits Aviano Air Base; emphasizes readiness and warfighter mindset
The visit highlighted the wing’s focus on maintaining readiness through capable leaders, disciplined Airmen and a culture centered on mission execution. As the United States Air Force prepares for increasingly complex operating environments, developing Airmen who can adapt, lead and perform under pressure remains critical to sustaining combat effectiveness.
The 31st FW provides combat airpower and capabilities from a strategically important location in southern Europe, requiring Airmen across numerous specialties to work together to ensure the wing remains prepared to execute its mission.
“Readiness starts with our people,” Lohmeier said. “We need Airmen who understand the mission, hold themselves to a high standard and have the right attitude to lead and execute when they are called upon.”
Lohmeier’s engagements also emphasized the importance of cultivating a warfighter mindset built on professionalism, grit, humility and leadership. These qualities are reinforced by exercises and training designed to prepare Airmen to make sound decisions and accomplish the mission under challenging conditions.
“A warfighter mindset is about more than being technically proficient at your job,” said Lohmeier. “It is about professionalism, grit and humility. It is about being willing to lead, learn and continue pushing yourself and your team to get better.”
Physical fitness was another core focus of Lohmeier’s visit. Maintaining physical standards helps ensure Airmen are ready for anything military service demands of them. It also builds the discipline and resilience required to operate effectively at home station and while deployed.
"Despite a demanding operational tempo, the Airmen at Aviano continue to prioritize their physical readiness,” Lohmeier said. “Their dedication proves that fitness is not an afterthought—it is a critical pillar of their readiness."
As the Air Force’s only permanently assigned fighter wing south of the Alps, the 31st FW is positioned to support U.S., NATO and Allied objectives across the region. Maintaining that capability depends on Airmen who are trained, prepared and committed to a warfighter mindset. Together, physical readiness, professional development and realistic training contribute to building resilient teams.
Lohmeier’s visit reinforced the connection between Department of the Air Force priorities and the work performed by 31st FW Airmen every day.
“What I’ve seen here at Aviano is Airmen who understand why their mission matters,” Lohmeier said. “That professionalism and commitment to readiness are exactly what our Air Force needs as we prepare for the challenges ahead.”
Through the continued support of Department of Air Force leadership, the 31st FW remains ready to secure the base, generate combat airpower, and deploy and fight from home.
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