Leadership Ohio group tours Wright-Patterson Air Force Base Published July 24, 2025 By Zion Dillahunt 88th Air Base Wing Public Affairs WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- Thirty-five prominent Ohio leaders stepped behind the gates of Wright-Patterson Air Force Base on July 18 to gain an exclusive look at the critical missions shaping national defense and to explore the base’s role as Ohio’s largest single-site employer. The visitors are part of “Leadership Ohio,” a program that brings together the state’s top community leaders and takes them on a year-long journey throughout Ohio, broadening their perspectives beyond their local communities. Their day included tours of three locations across the installation, each highlighting a unique aspect of the base’s mission and capabilities. The group first visited the 445th Airlift Wing, where participants had the chance to board a C-17 Globemaster III. During the visit, the air crew provided an in-depth briefing about the aircraft, its critical mission, and the important responsibilities shouldered by the crew members. Next, the group was welcomed by Col. Dustin Richards, 88th Air Base Wing and installation commander. Richards provided an education to the group on WPAFB’s critical role in national defense. He highlighted how the base is driving advancements in lethality, readiness, and deterrence, ensuring that the U.S. military remains prepared to face emerging threats. Col. Dustin Richards, 88th Air Base Wing and Installation Commander, briefs members of the 2025 Leadership Ohio class during their visit on July 18, 2025. Leadership Ohio connects the state’s top community leaders in a year-long journey across Ohio to broaden their perspectives beyond their local areas. During their time at Wright-Patterson, the group tours key sites including the 445th Airlift Wing, 88th Air Base Wing headquarters, and the Honor Guard. This visit strengthens the partnership between Wright-Patterson and our valued community leaders. (U.S. Air Force photo by Zion Dillahunt) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res “In light of today’s global challenges from Russia’s aggression in Ukraine to China’s actions in the South China Sea, the Department of Defense recognized the need to reorient for the future,” said Richards. “Wright-Patterson has reoptimized itself to support the Air Force’s mission in this new era. My role is to ensure our mission partners have the infrastructure, services, and support they need to remain ready and lethal.” The tour concluded with a visit to the Honor Guard, where attendees witnessed a solemn demonstration of traditional military funeral ceremonies. This moving presentation underscored the honor and respect afforded to service members and highlighted the deep traditions upheld by the Air Force community. As the day concluded, members of Leadership Ohio departed WPAFB with a renewed appreciation for the dedication of service members and the vital role the base plays in national defense. “It was incredible to get an up-close look at the inner workings of WPAFB,” said Nichelle Harris, Leadership Ohio program manager. “We gained valuable insight into the advanced systems and forward-thinking leadership that keep the base operating at the highest level.”