A Visit with Hurricane Hunter General Rich Moss: Commander in the Eye of the Storm

By: Aimee Hester

When a hurricane enters the Gulf, the Nation is immediately transfixed to all the news updates and the weather channel coverage, while South Mississippians hold their collective breath. At the helm are the brave Hurricane Hunters of the 403rd Wing Air Force Command, and its Commander, General Rich Moss. GTP had the opportunity to speak with this charismatic leader, and ask him about his service, his Airmen, and his plans for the future.

GTP: Looking over your time here at Keesler Air Force Base, what are your greatest accomplishments at the 403rd?

General Moss: I would have to say the turnaround that occurred after Hurricane Katrina. Half of our Airmen lost their homes, our planes were scattered all over the country flying various missions and within two days we had all of our aircraft relocated to Dobbins Air Reserve Base in Georgia and were up to speed flying into Hurricanes. Hurricane Rita was right on the heels of Katrina and our guys answered the call and provided lifesaving information about that storm to the public.
Other accomplishments would be the conversion of the C130J, 18 Airplanes that are combat ready, a volunteer force that deployed for a two month mission in Qatar (Middle East) and Afghanistan to provide support and airlift for medical emergencies and a unit that passed its safety inspection with flying colors. I am really proud of the people in my wing. They are resilient. Whenever I need something, people in my unit will step forward. We’ve rebuilt and recovered.

It is important to note that General Moss commands the only Reconnaissance Squadron in the Department of Defense)

GTP: What challenges face your airmen and women as they return from serving overseas? There seems to be such an anti war sentiment during this election year, do your Airmen speak of that bias, and how do they react to it?

General Moss: Not at all, my reservists have been supported, not only in tactical missions, but overall. The Gulf Coast is wonderful place, supportive, very appreciative of what we do, and proud to be the home of the Hurricane Hunters.

GTP: Looking back to your childhood, when did you decide to make a career in the military and who was your greatest influence?

I would have to say that my Dad was my biggest influence; he always had a sense of community and was always giving back. I didn’t plan to spend 37 years in the military. I was in college and it was during Vietnam. I drew lottery number 26. So I knew what my fate was, and I decided to enlist in the Military. Growing up on a farm in Indiana I always saw the airplanes flying overhead. I had never even been on an airplane when I enlisted. The Air force taught me to fly and I thought...this is really cool! He continued, I thought I would be a doctor or a lawyer. I have seen things and gone places I would never have dreamed of.

GTP: I understand that you are going to retire soon. Will you and your wife stay on the Coast?

General Moss: We are staying here. I am going to relax, see if I can get my golf game back, and get involved with local charities. I’ll get more active in the Chamber, I want to stay involved; I want to be a part of the positive changes on the Coast.

General Moss has been awarded the Legion of merit, the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Air Force Achievement Medal, the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, the Air Force Organizational Excellence award, the Combat Readiness Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Air Force Overseas Long Tour Ribbon, Air Force Longevity Service Award, the Armed Forces Training Medal. He was Promoted to the Rank of Brigadier General on February 6th, 2004.