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***image1***A book called “Jet Pilot” sparked an interest in aviation in a young boy in elementary school not long ago. Years later, that man is set to retire as Commander, United States Air Forces in Europe during a retirement ceremony on Ramstein Monday.
“It’s been a phenomenal experience,” Gen. Tom Hobbins said. “To have my last assignment as commander of USAFE was the highlight of my career and a perfect end to my years of service.”
General Hobbins will retire with more than 38 years of service to the Air Force. He entered the Air Force in December 1969 as a graduate of Officer Training School. In the following years he moved on to command a numbered air force, two tactical fighter wings and a composite air group.
General Hobbins said Airmen’s teamwork is paramount to USAFE’s success in improving international relationships over the past two years.
“From Romania to Russia, from the African Continent to Kabul, USAFE Airmen, along with NATO and other partner nations, are working together as a team to forge relationships to foster conditions that deter terrorism,” General Hobbins said.
The best part of the job has always been working with Airmen, General Hobbins said.
“No matter what the stress load, no matter what the challenge, our Airmen have always made great things happen. They’re America’s sons and daughters, grandfathers and grandmothers, and aunts and uncles. They’re America’s heroes and are doing wonderful things in this theater,” said General Hobbins.
General Hobbins’ wife, Robbin is also scheduled to be honored at the ceremony for her contributions to the Air Force. Mrs. Hobbins will receive the Exceptional Service Award for her volunteer work at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center. Mrs. Hobbins worked with wounded warriors, especially those who sustained traumatic brain syndrome. She is the European coordinator for Sew Much Comfort, a charitable organization with groups from the U.K. to Stuttgart that sews adaptive clothing for people with combat injuries.
Prior to the retirement ceremony, the NATO Allied Air Component Command Headquarters will host General Hobbins Monday morning with a “walk-out” ceremony. NATO personnel are scheduled to honor General Hobbins as he departs the facility for the last time as commander.
General Hobbins is a command pilot with more than 5,100 flying hours primarily in fighter aircraft. Recently USAFE’s enlisted corps bestowed General Hobbins with their highest honor, the Order of the Sword, a testament to his commitment to their well being.
(Courtesy of USAFE Public Affairs)
