Fox Chatter

On this episode of Fox Chatter, U.S. Air Force Col. Jim Roth, commander of the 169th Mission Support Group, steps in as guest host to guide Swamp Fox listeners through a fast-moving and unpredictable moment for the wing. Roth opens with an update on shifting operations, winter weather responses, evolving exercise plans, and the growing focus on both 2026 readiness and the historic demands already taking shape for 2027. Framing the current tempo through themes of flexibility, preparation, and teamwork, he highlights how mission support functions underpin everything from state activations to federal taskings. Joined by Chief Master Sgt. In the conversation, John Quattlebaum and Dr. Nick Thomas transition to family readiness resources and the human side of high-tempo operations, before Roth closes with a clear message to Airmen: stay ready, stay adaptable, and keep taking care of one another as the mission accelerates.

The January 2026 episode of Fox Chatter kicks off the new year with a look back at the accomplishments that defined 2025 and a preview of what lies ahead as the wing prepares for its 2027 deployment cycle. The episode outlines January drill priorities, individual readiness requirements, and the importance of open communication amid ongoing Air Force-wide changes, including the transition to the Air Expeditionary Wing 2.0 framework.

Chief Master Sgt. Eric Bowen joins the podcast to recognize the 2025 annual award winners, highlighting the Airmen, civilians, families, and units whose performance drove mission success and readiness across the wing. Master Sgt. Justin Cayton provides details on the upcoming Top Gun Drill Meet in March, while Senior Master Sgt. Mark Fuge discusses a February enlisted leadership symposium hosted by the Top Three, focused on professional development and leadership growth.

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.