How well will a non-pilot Command PACAF?

2014-07-18T12:53:06-04:00

In an effort to increase diversity, the DoD just appointed LTG Lori Robinson to head PACAF. There are also non-pilots in charge in other parts of the Air Force as well. A navigator commands US Special Forces Command Air Force elements. She wouldn't be the first female AF sub-combattant commander either...the first was in AFRICOM with the 17th Air Force, but she was a career long transportation pilot. If you don't actually have experience doing what the Air Force professes as its core mission...is this a good choice?

Response by CMDCM Gene Treants made Jul 18 at 2014 1:27 PM

2014-07-18T13:27:00-04:00

I really wonder if Command and piloting an airplane are the same thing? Yes, I understand that the experience of being a pilot might make you more able to get the respect of pilots, but they are a really small part of the Air Force Pacific organization. How well you lead and manage is, at least to me a better mark of the ability to command any group.

Navy has for a long time required Deep Draft Command to go on in Command of an Aircraft Carrier and that almost always goes to an Aviator. Does that really have to be a qualifier for Command of a Ship that large? I have met many non-aviators who command well and many aviators who really belong in a cockpit, no matter their rank.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 19 at 2014 12:17 PM

2014-07-19T12:17:19-04:00

LTG Robinson is still a Pilot; and though considered a non-combat aviator, her selection is in line with the strategic vision of the Air Force Chief of Staff. If it would have been a Logistics or Intelligence Officer then I would have thought it was odd (after I picked myself up off the floor in disbelief ;) Even in the Army we see from time to time an appointment of a non tip of the spear General to our command positions in DIV/CORPS...but rarely at the four star level. I think the mission in PACAF is probably far more relevant to her experiences than a fighter pilot's would be...not much combat action happening in the Pacific; but a whole lotta movement and support in our aligned nations. LTG Robinson will shine; but sadly will have very little effect on the AF culture as a whole.

Response by MSgt Alex Taylor made Jul 25 at 2015 3:12 AM

2015-07-25T03:12:18-04:00

I believe it is a good thing to start getting a broader spectrum of individuals into higher command slots. As a history major, I've seen the bad from the early days when the bomber pilots ruled and can see the effects the fighter pilots have had. I believe this is a good follow on to Gen Schwarz's selection as CSAF. We need to keep this up and potentially not just allow pilots, but other career fields in as well. They have different perspectives that can aid in our successful accomplishment of the mission. As others have mentioned, I agree that the ability to fly should not be a major prerequisite to a high ranking command.