HQ ARPC hosts Aurora Defense Council

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Katrina M. Brisbin
BUCKLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. --  Approximately 100 members of the Aurora Defense Council gathered together here for their monthly meeting, April 25.

Each month a different member organization of the council hosts the meeting. HQ ARPC hosted this month and provided attendees a mission brief as well as an overview of the Airman lifecycle and the center’s role in the big Air Force picture.

“It was a special treat hearing from a variety of Airmen and civilians that make it all happen,” said Rene Simard, retired chief master sergeant and executive vice president of the Aurora Chamber of Commerce.

The Airman lifecycle focuses on recruiting, developing and retaining a high-quality workforce of effective leaders to ensure war-fighting success. HQ ARPC oversees personnel actions for more than 1.3 million customers including Guard and Reserve members. From initial entry to retirement, the center provides support for Airmen throughout their military careers and beyond.

This is vital for the Air Force.

“ARPC doesn’t just make the Air Force better,” said Col. Robert Riegel, 460th Space Wing vice commander. “It makes it possible.”

There were also briefing given by other installation leaders as well as local and state organizations.

“It was a true pleasure hosting the council,” said Brig. Gen. Ellen Moore, HQ ARPC commander. “It was a great opportunity to show what we do here to serve generations of Airmen.”

Originally started in 1918 as an informal relationship between the Aurora Businessman’s Club and the U.S. Army Hospital at Fitzsimons, the ADC is comprised of about 330 military and civilian members. Their primary goal is to foster trust and understanding between the various military units and business communities in the metro area.