Col. Matthew Gaetke, 8th Fighter Wing commander, gives his opening remarks during a Flight Commander Course at Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea, April 2, 2024. During the course, leaders from the 8th FW briefed the course participants on their experiences as well as tools that new flight commanders could use during their time in command. (Staff Sgt. Samuel Earick, U.S. Air Force)
KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- A flight commander can come in many shapes and sizes but one thing must stay consistent; the ability to lead their Airmen. Kunsan Air Base equipped young leaders with the tools to succeed with the second iteration of its Flight Commander Course, held April 2-4.
The three-day course was built for individuals in or going into a flight commander position to equip them with the tools and information they need to thrive and help their people while in command.
“The course is meant to give flight commanders a sense of confidence in themselves as leaders,” said 1st Lt. Lindsay Dedrickson, 8th Operations Group executive officer.
Leaders assigned to Kunsan AB as well as guest speakers from across the Peninsula imparted their wisdom and knowledge gained from their careers to the class members.
Beyond learning the curriculum, the course provided a venue for students to meet peers that they might not interact with during their day-to-day positions, allowing them to network and learn from one another.
“Having the opportunity to work with one another and bounce ideas off each other has been very beneficial,” said 1st Lt. Erinne Curtin, 8th Maintenance Squadron munitions supply commander.
Wolf Pack leadership plans for the course to be recurring, meeting the need for deliberate training despite the fast personnel turnover of a short tour.
Dedrickson spoke on how she helps the spark of confidence will allow these new leaders to create stability during their tenure as a commanders.
“This is the first time in command for many of these participants and they will have to work with and lead Airmen that may have 15 or more years in the service,” said Dedrickson. “Being able to give them the tools to be more confident and have more faith in themselves will help everyone that they work with.”
