Fox Chatter

Fox Chatter Episode 25 features the 169th Fighter Wing’s monthly commander update as U.S. Air Force Col. Shaun Bowes, commander of the 169th Fighter Wing, reflects on the challenges of the recent government shutdown, the resilience of the Swamp Fox team, and the support provided by the Family Readiness Program. The episode includes a discussion with Col. Ryan Hurt, commander of the 143rd Airlift Wing from the Rhode Island Air National Guard, as both wings continue building their Deployable Combat Wing partnership ahead of the 2027 deployment cycle. Chief Master Sgt. Eric Bowen, command chief for the 169th FW also speaks with Chief Master Sgt. Nicholas Kollette, command chief assigned to the 143rd AW, about leadership, taking care of Airmen, and preparing both wings for integrated operations. The episode closes with an update on the Winterfest lineup, organized by the 3rd Go, and several announcements for the December drill weekend.

Fox Chatter Episode 25 highlights the return of the 169th Fighter Wing’s monthly commander update as U.S. Air Force Col. Shaun Bowes reflects on the challenges of the recent government shutdown, the resilience of the Swamp Fox team, and the support provided by our Family Readiness Program. This episode features a key discussion with Col. Ryan Hurt, commander of the 143rd Airlift Wing from the Rhode Island Air National Guard, as both wings continue building their Deployable Combat Wing partnership ahead of the 2027 deployment cycle. Command Chief Master Sgt. Eric Bowen from the 169th Fighter Wing also sits down with Command Chief Master Sgt. Nicholas Kollette from the 143rd Airlift Wing to talk leadership, people, and preparing Airmen across both wings for integrated operations. The episode closes with an update from the 3rd Go on this year’s Winterfest lineup and several announcements for the December drill weekend.

In this episode, Col. Shaun Bowes, commander of the 169th Fighter Wing, kicks things off with updates on the new PT test, social media, and upcoming wing events. He also sits down with Col. Jim Roth, the new Mission Support Group commander, and Lt. Col. Brian Doyle, the new deputy commander of sustainment, to introduce them and hear their leadership priorities. Lt. Col. Rachel Phillips, commander of the 169th Force Support Squadron, joins to explain recent lodging policy changes. Chief Master Sgt. Eric Bowen wraps up the show in conversation with Airman 1st Class Miles Hallick and Airman 1st Class Mark Fevrin from student flight, sharing a fresh look at military life and what makes McEntire Joint National Guard Base unique.

This month’s episode covers the tough realities of fiscal year closeout, what to expect during our upcoming four-day super drill, and important updates that affect every Airman. Master Sgt. Josh Pellitier joins us with safety reminders, Dr. Rico Brown, the director of psychological health, shares how laughter supports resilience, and Command Chief Master Sgt. Eric Bowen stops by with his monthly update. We’ll also highlight leadership changes across the wing and encourage you to make your voice heard in the annual climate survey.

U.S. Air Force Col. Shaun Bowes, 169th Fighter Wing commander, shares key takeaways from the Relampago de los Andes exercise in Colombia and outlines his priorities for the upcoming drill weekend. Chief Master Sgt. Bowen, the wing command chief, shares information about an upcoming SPP event taking place at McEntire and his next All-Call with the 5/6 ranks this weekend. Master Sgt. Shari Watson with the 169th Medical Group, speaks on the medical group's participation in RDLA. Capt. Trey Murphy discusses this month's Ready Airman Training requirements (step-by-step guide attached), and Master Sgt. Jory Middleton shares information for a 3rd Go’s event Saturday.