HAMPTON ROADS — The fields at Joint Base Langley-Eustis (JBLE) were hopping with friendly competition as the Army and Air Force squared off against each other during the first-ever Army/Air Force flag football game on Nov. 1.
The game was created to align with the goals of new installation commander Col. Matthew Altman, who took over in July. Altman came to Virginia from Texas, where he was the previous commander of 47th mission support group at Laughlin Air Force Base.
“This game was a great opportunity to celebrate our unique joint base community and the fact that our wing supports so many critical Air Force, Army, and Joint missions across both storied installations,” Altman said.
Other initiatives Altman is implementing include enriching culture and connection, igniting the warfighter imperative, and modernizing force and infrastructure.
Altman said that all three initiatives are important, but he’s most excited about enriching the culture and connection.
“We have elite teams all over JBLE doing extremely important missions for the Department of Defense and our nation. It’s important to ensure our Airmen, Soldiers, and civilian teammates recognize the importance of what they’re doing and connect with the missions we support, one another across the joint base, and with the wonderful Hampton Roads communities we call home,” Altman said.
The 633rd Air Base Wing is currently housed at Joint Base Langley-Eustis. Altman oversees the entire wing, including families.
“Events like this are a perfect opportunity to take a break, celebrate this special team, and raise morale throughout our ranks. Building an inclusive, engaging, and winning culture is something JBLE strives for every day. The Army may have come out on top this year, but the real win comes from the tighter bond felt across the JBLE community from such a fun event. We’re looking forward to an even bigger event next year over on our Langley campus!”
