55th Wing leaders descend on Offutt Published March 24, 2009 By 55th Wing Public Affairs Staff OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. -- Fifty-Fifth Wing unit leaders from around the globe will gather here March 26 - 27 for the 55th Wing Commanders Conference. The conference, held annually in conjunction with significant wing events, is an opportunity for Brig. Gen. Jim Jones, 55th Wing commander, to meet with unit commanders and superintendents to discuss current issues facing Airmen stationed here and in various time zones around the world. "The conference provides the wing's leaders a quorum with peers to identify improvement opportunities in wing operations to boost unit efficiency," said General Jones. "This year, the emphasis is on the war on waste as well as how the wing's vision and focus fits into the overall vision of the Air Force." In addition to participating in the conference, unit commanders and superintendents will also attend the Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and "Tales of the 55th" events March 27, and the 55th Wing Birthday Ball March 28. During the Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, a former member of the Fightin' 55th will have his portrait and contributions added to a wall of honor located in the wing headquarters building. As the 55th inductee into the Hall of Fame, retired Col. William E. Ernst will be honored as a former pilot and squadron commander and Headquarters Strategic Air Command staff member for his "outstanding leadership and contributions through numerous service and military organizations." Tales of the 55th, sponsored by the 55th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing Association, features a narrative journey into the lives and events of the wing's storied past. Everyone is invited to celebrate the wing's legacy at 3 p.m. March 27 at the James M. McCoy Airman Leadership School. "The 'Tales' both keep the wing's legacy alive and set the standard for today's Fightin' 55th team," said Jim Thomas, 55th SRWA President and event organizer.