16th Air Force commander gets close up view of Recce Town’s crucial IW role in the modern age during two-day visit Published March 6, 2025 9RW/PA BEALE AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Lt. Gen. Thomas K. Hensley commander of Sixteenth Air Force (Air Forces Cyber), visited Beale AFB Feb. 20-21 for the first time since taking command last year. During the two-day visit, Hensley toured essential facilities across the base, flew in the U-2 Dragon Lady and addressed more than 550 Airmen during an All Call. It was during the All Call where Hensley emphasized the crucial role Beale plays in information warfare in the modern age and how it takes every Airman to contribute to the mission. Hensley highlighted the importance of readiness and security, amid increasing cyber threats particularly concerning telecommunication and networks. “One of the reasons I go around and visit all these bases is to motivate Airmen to do their mission, but as I watch them do their part in real time, I end up being the one motivated,” said Hensley. He also addressed questions the Airmen had, ranging from his personal experience in the Air Force, to implementation of recent executive orders. Among the facilities Hensley toured was the 9th Medical Group where Airmen involved in the day-to-day operations provided insight on how the different clinics support medical readiness. In return, he reminded them how they actively contribute to the intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) mission. Hensley got the ultimate look into the mission when he flew, for the first time, in the U-2 Dragon Lady, a key contributor of the ISR mission. The TU-2S Dragon Lady is a two- seater U-2 used to train pilots at Beale which allows the primary pilot to navigate and the second to observe. Hensley experienced the U-2’s capabilities firsthand on a high-altitude flight, as he ascended to an altitude of 70,000 feet. To prepare for takeoff, he underwent various training sessions, to include emergency parachute and aviation life support briefings. 9th Physiological Support Squadron technicians were among the many Airmen who prepared Hensley for his flight, giving him a direct perspective on how they operate. “Thank you to all the Airmen behind the scenes that made this high-flight happen,” said Hensley. “This was an experience of a lifetime that wouldn’t have been possible without you.” Visits from senior leadership give Airmen insight on how their contributions look from a “high-altitude”. Hensley’s visit reassured and aligned Airmen with their mission as it evolves, keeping Beale united and mission-ready.