NATO's secretary general paid a visit to the Jacksonville International Airport Thursday as he took the time to visit with the Florida Air National Guard.
Jens Stoltenberg spent time with the 125th Fighter Wing and the men and women who take care of and fly the F-15/C Eagle aircraft that comprise the unit.
Recommended Videos
The visit coincides with the fighter wing's deployment to Eastern Europe, where 12 fighter jets and about 200 airmen from the wing are taking part in training with NATO allies.
The mission is part of a larger effort aimed at demonstrating U.S. dedication to the enduring peace and stability in the area.
"The 125th Fighter Wing is creating history by being the first Air National Guard unit to support the Theater Security Package mission in Europe," said Col. Brian Simpler, commander of the 125th Fighter Wing.
The secretary general said the most impressive part of the visit was to see the quality and the professionalism of the members of the fighter wing and to learn about the different missions it's participated in over the years.