Wing commander promoted to brigadier general

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. John Callahan
  • 176th Wing Public Affairs
Charles E. "Chuck" Foster Jr., commander of the Alaska Air National Guard's 176th Wing, was promoted from colonel to brigadier general before a packed house at a ceremony here Dec. 18. The ceremony -- during which he received his general's star insignia and flag -- was officiated by Brig. Gen. Deborah McManus, assistant adjutant general and commander of the Alaska Air National Guard. 

Foster is a 1977 graduate of Conroe High School, in Conroe, Texas; and the son of longtime Conroe residents Clarice and Charles E. Foster Sr. 

A former rescue helicopter pilot and vice wing commander, Foster assumed command of the 1,300-member 176th Wing in July 2008. The unit's 16th commanding officer and the fourth to be promoted to general officer, he is responsible for the well-being of the wing members and the successful execution of the wing's missions of combat search-and-rescue, tactical and strategic airlift, air control and rescue coordination. 

At the recommendation of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin and the Alaska National Guard's adjutant general, Lt. Gen. (Alaska) Craig Campbell, he was nominated for the rank by the president of the United States. His nomination was confirmed by the U.S. Senate on Sept. 15.