OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Nebraska -- The 55th Mission Support Group held a change of command at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, July 14.
Col. Michael Manion, 55th Wing commander, presided over the event where Col. Matthew Joganich relinquished command of the group to Col. David Norton.
The 55th MSG is responsible for five squadrons encompassing 1,600 individuals who support Air Combat Command’s largest wing and over 50 tenant units, including U.S. Strategic Command and the 557th Weather Wing.
“As hard as it is to say goodbye to one great leader, we welcome another incredible leader,” Manion said. “Col. Dave Norton is the absolute right leader at the right time. Dave understands the rigor and responsibility of command, because he has been entrusted to lead Airmen in a squadron twice. I wish you the best of luck in command, although I believe you have made your own luck through hard work and determination.”
Norton said he was looking forward to the challenge of leading the group.
“It is now my sacred honor and responsibility to lead you,” he said. “I very much look forward to that, and to being an active part of this community.”
Norton said he had spent a significant amount of time researching and learning about the 55th MSG after being notified he would take command, and was ready to seize the challenge of providing support for not only Team Offutt, but the DOD as well.
Norton comes to Offutt AFB from the 633rd Mission Support Group in Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, where he served as deputy commander.