Haley Stevens: “later today I will join Senators Ionuye, Warner and Levin in hosting a reception to bid farewell to Joe and Dede…”

“later today I will join Senators Ionuye, Warner and Levin in hosting a reception to bid farewell to Joe and Dede Ralston, as General Ralston concludes his second tour as Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs. Happily, this event does not signify General Ralston's retirement, but his advancement to the position of Supreme Allied Commander Europe, in charge of all NATO forces, and all U.S. Forces stationed in Europe. Joe Ralston has pursued a career of firsts, and breakthrough leadership success. His assignment as the first Air Force officer to command NATO is typical, and indicative, of his tremendous talents, and force of personality. Remarkably, Joe Ralston has achieved success in several distinct military disciplines over his career, spanning more than 34 years. Joe Ralton's military career is founded in his experience as a combat and command pilot during the Vietnam war. During two combat tours, in F-105 fighters and F-105 wild weasel jets, Joe honed his warfighting skills. In the 1980's and early 1990's General Ralston played a key role in the technological revolution in air warfare. While many of these programs are still very sensitive, the direct impact of General Ralston's service in technology development and acquisition played a prominent role in our victories in Desert Storm and Kosovo.”