OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. -- The 55th Mission Support Group is under new leadership following a change of command ceremony June 26, 2025.
Col. Patrick Kolesiak relinquished command and Col. M. Mark Russell took command during the time-honored ceremony at the Offutt Fire Station.
“Col. Patrick Kolesiak’s impact on the 55th Wing has been nothing short of transformational,” said Col. Aaron Gray, 55th Wing commander, who was the presiding official. “He was relentless in making sure our core and essential missions continued, no matter what. He is literally responsible for helping rebuild this base after the historic flood. He elevated readiness across the enterprise. The Fightin’ Fifty-Fifth is stronger because of him.”
Russell was previously the Chief, Asset Management Division, Directorate of Civil Engineers, DCS/Logistics, Engineering & Force Protection, Headquarters Air Force. He led a diverse staff of 25 professionals responsible for policy, oversight and guidance of Air Force Housing, Dorms, Environmental, Real Property and Accountability at 180 worldwide installations with a replacement value of over $670 billion.
“We’re proud to welcome Col. M. Mark Russell to the Fightin’ Fifty-Fifth,” Gray said. “He inherits an exceptional foundation of the 55th Mission Support Group and is well-equipped to lead it to even greater heights. His leadership will help propel Offutt and the 55th Wing forward in service to our nation.”
The 55th MSG is responsible for five squadrons encompassing more than 1,600 individuals who support Air Combat Command’s largest wing and more than 50 mission partner units including U.S. Strategic Command and the 557th Weather Wing.
“I am honored for this incredible opportunity to serve the men and women of the 55th Mission Support Group and look forward to building upon Col. Kolesiak’s incredible efforts and performance here on the installation and with our community partners,” Russell said.
Among Kolesiak’s many accomplishments are leading the installation through ACC’s Foundational and Combat Readiness Inspection, with his Airmen earning the highest rating for both inspections. He built partnerships with the community, local leaders, and school districts which will have an impact on the quality of lives for our families for years to come. Lastly, he oversaw the unrivaled service the 55th Mission Support Group gives to the global Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance mission; supporting the no-fail Nuclear Command, Control, and Communications mission; and ensuring the base is DoD’s premiere power projection platform on the nation’s worst day.
Kolesiak leaves Offutt to command Air Force ROTC Detachment 645 at The Ohio State University where he will be responsible for growing the Air Force and Space Force’s next generation of leaders.
“There is no one who works harder, with more dedication, and more professionalism than the Airmen of the 55th Mission Support Group,” Kolesiak said. “Having the privilege of working for so many talented professionals over the past year is truly the highlight of my career.”