1 00:00:01,600 --> 00:00:03,711 Good morning , ladies and gentlemen , 2 00:00:03,711 --> 00:00:05,767 and welcome to the 55 Wing Change of 3 00:00:05,767 --> 00:00:08,044 Command . I'm Captain Christina Roller , 4 00:00:08,044 --> 00:00:10,100 your narrator for today's event . On 5 00:00:10,100 --> 00:00:11,989 behalf of our presiding officer , 6 00:00:11,989 --> 00:00:11,800 Lieutenant General Kevin B . Kennedy , 7 00:00:11,810 --> 00:00:13,866 commander 16 th Air Force . Today we 8 00:00:13,866 --> 00:00:16,088 are honoring Colonel Kristen D Thompson 9 00:00:16,088 --> 00:00:18,199 on the occasion of her relinquishment 10 00:00:18,199 --> 00:00:20,421 of command of the 55th Wing and Colonel 11 00:00:20,421 --> 00:00:22,477 Mark D Howard upon his assumption of 12 00:00:22,477 --> 00:00:24,699 command . Today's ceremony is rooted in 13 00:00:24,699 --> 00:00:26,866 military history dating back to the 18 14 00:00:26,866 --> 00:00:26,670 th century during the reign of King 15 00:00:26,680 --> 00:00:28,624 Frederick , the great of prussia . 16 00:00:28,624 --> 00:00:30,847 During this time , organizational flags 17 00:00:30,847 --> 00:00:33,013 were developed with colors and symbols 18 00:00:33,013 --> 00:00:35,124 unique to each particular unit . When 19 00:00:35,124 --> 00:00:37,291 the change of command took place , the 20 00:00:37,291 --> 00:00:39,402 outgoing commander passed the flag to 21 00:00:39,402 --> 00:00:41,569 the individual assuming command . This 22 00:00:41,569 --> 00:00:40,990 gesture was accomplished in front of 23 00:00:41,000 --> 00:00:42,944 the unit so that all could witness 24 00:00:42,944 --> 00:00:44,778 their new leader assuming the su 25 00:00:44,778 --> 00:00:46,944 position for over 50 years . The fight 26 00:00:46,944 --> 00:00:49,000 in 55 has notably contributed to our 27 00:00:49,000 --> 00:00:51,222 nation's military history in defense of 28 00:00:51,222 --> 00:00:53,167 the constitution , gaining honor , 29 00:00:53,167 --> 00:00:55,222 distinction and compiling an admiral 30 00:00:55,222 --> 00:00:57,389 record of achievements . Evolving from 31 00:00:57,389 --> 00:00:57,259 one of the many fighter groups in World 32 00:00:57,270 --> 00:00:58,881 War II to one of the Premier 33 00:00:58,881 --> 00:01:00,548 Intelligence surveillance and 34 00:01:00,548 --> 00:01:02,492 reconnaissance , electronic attack 35 00:01:02,492 --> 00:01:04,548 treaty verification and agile combat 36 00:01:04,548 --> 00:01:06,714 support units supporting the president 37 00:01:06,714 --> 00:01:08,826 of the United States and Secretary of 38 00:01:08,826 --> 00:01:11,048 Defense . The 55th Wing has established 39 00:01:11,048 --> 00:01:10,900 an admiral legacy for future 40 00:01:10,910 --> 00:01:13,230 generations . The formations you see 41 00:01:13,239 --> 00:01:14,906 represent the six group level 42 00:01:14,906 --> 00:01:16,739 organizations of the 55th Wing . 43 00:01:16,739 --> 00:01:18,961 Today's ceremonial music is provided by 44 00:01:18,961 --> 00:01:21,017 the off brass from the United States 45 00:01:21,017 --> 00:01:23,239 Air Force , Heartland of America band . 46 00:01:23,239 --> 00:01:25,350 Again . Thank you for your attendance 47 00:01:25,350 --> 00:01:24,980 today and we hope you enjoy this 48 00:01:24,989 --> 00:01:26,839 morning's ceremony . Ladies and 49 00:01:26,849 --> 00:01:28,682 gentlemen , please stand for the 50 00:01:28,682 --> 00:01:30,682 arrival of the official party . The 51 00:01:30,682 --> 00:01:32,349 playing of musical honors the 52 00:01:32,349 --> 00:01:34,182 presentation of the colors , the 53 00:01:34,182 --> 00:01:36,405 playing of the national anthem . And we 54 00:01:36,405 --> 00:01:36,120 ask that you please remain standing for 55 00:01:36,129 --> 00:01:37,129 the invocation . 56 00:01:59,669 --> 00:02:00,589 So until 57 00:02:39,380 --> 00:02:41,547 sorry permission to present the colors 58 00:02:41,860 --> 00:02:43,029 present the colors , 59 00:02:49,929 --> 00:02:50,929 Lord . 60 00:02:55,169 --> 00:02:56,169 Oh , 61 00:03:18,139 --> 00:03:19,190 hello , 62 00:03:22,720 --> 00:03:24,800 great . Hello , 63 00:04:31,380 --> 00:04:33,890 four . Um 64 00:04:35,910 --> 00:04:36,359 Hello , 65 00:04:59,119 --> 00:05:01,286 please join me in , in the prayer . If 66 00:05:01,286 --> 00:05:02,286 you wish 67 00:05:06,109 --> 00:05:08,709 Heavenly Father , we ask your blessing 68 00:05:08,720 --> 00:05:11,000 upon all who are gathered here and 69 00:05:11,010 --> 00:05:13,232 praise that you will be with us in this 70 00:05:13,232 --> 00:05:15,429 transfer of responsibilities , inspire 71 00:05:15,440 --> 00:05:17,218 us with your wisdom that we may 72 00:05:17,218 --> 00:05:19,329 appreciate the true nature of command 73 00:05:19,329 --> 00:05:21,496 and the serious consequences that flow 74 00:05:21,496 --> 00:05:23,809 from it . Lord , thank you for your 75 00:05:23,820 --> 00:05:25,931 presence . This change of command for 76 00:05:25,931 --> 00:05:29,690 55 Wing Air Base . Today , we 77 00:05:29,700 --> 00:05:31,922 stand in a long stream of tradition and 78 00:05:31,922 --> 00:05:33,811 history in marking this change of 79 00:05:33,811 --> 00:05:35,922 command with our time and attention . 80 00:05:36,250 --> 00:05:38,250 We thank you for choosing leaders , 81 00:05:38,250 --> 00:05:40,769 integrity , who lead the mission , who 82 00:05:40,779 --> 00:05:43,619 motivate us in our world and ultimately 83 00:05:43,630 --> 00:05:45,408 promote freedom in the world by 84 00:05:45,408 --> 00:05:47,760 training Air Force airmen . We humbly 85 00:05:47,769 --> 00:05:49,491 ask your blessing upon Colonel 86 00:05:49,491 --> 00:05:51,720 Christian D Thompson and Colonel Mark 87 00:05:51,820 --> 00:05:54,010 Howard as they pass between the 88 00:05:54,019 --> 00:05:56,350 guidance of command , as it passes 89 00:05:56,359 --> 00:05:58,526 strength bo the task to which you have 90 00:05:58,526 --> 00:06:00,748 called them , go with the Colonel Chris 91 00:06:00,748 --> 00:06:02,649 Thompson for the new assignment . 92 00:06:02,829 --> 00:06:05,190 Remind the Colonel Mary Howard and his 93 00:06:05,200 --> 00:06:08,119 family as he is the 55 wing to the new 94 00:06:08,130 --> 00:06:10,079 height of excellence , give us the 95 00:06:10,089 --> 00:06:12,311 commitment to serve our new commander . 96 00:06:12,311 --> 00:06:14,478 Well , thank you for your never ending 97 00:06:14,478 --> 00:06:17,200 love , strange courage and guidance . 98 00:06:17,269 --> 00:06:19,399 He's unlocking the full potential of 99 00:06:19,410 --> 00:06:21,929 the outstanding 55 wing in your whole 100 00:06:21,940 --> 00:06:23,880 name . We pray . Amen . 101 00:06:32,230 --> 00:06:34,452 Thank you to the Alpha Air Force Base , 102 00:06:34,452 --> 00:06:36,674 Honor Guard , Heartland of America Band 103 00:06:36,674 --> 00:06:38,452 and chaplain Guida . Ladies and 104 00:06:38,452 --> 00:06:38,440 gentlemen , please be seated . 105 00:06:42,769 --> 00:06:44,825 We would like to welcome our special 106 00:06:44,825 --> 00:06:46,658 guest with us today from Colonel 107 00:06:46,658 --> 00:06:48,936 Thompson's family . We have her mother , 108 00:06:48,936 --> 00:06:50,825 Donna Larson and husband Dr James 109 00:06:50,825 --> 00:06:52,713 Larson , her brother in law Brian 110 00:06:52,713 --> 00:06:56,410 Keleman and her niece Adeline Sure . 111 00:07:00,950 --> 00:07:03,061 And from Colonel Howard's family , we 112 00:07:03,061 --> 00:07:05,006 have his wife , Shannon and sons , 113 00:07:05,006 --> 00:07:07,228 Brandon and Kade , his uncle Mr Stephen 114 00:07:07,228 --> 00:07:09,506 Gay , United States Navy and his guest , 115 00:07:09,506 --> 00:07:11,339 Miss Pat Dobbs , his aunt , Miss 116 00:07:11,339 --> 00:07:13,339 Christine Gay and her wife JJ , his 117 00:07:13,339 --> 00:07:15,561 cousin Mrs Susan Hirsch and her husband 118 00:07:15,561 --> 00:07:17,450 Bill and his father in law master 119 00:07:17,450 --> 00:07:19,394 sergeant , Roderick Charles United 120 00:07:19,394 --> 00:07:21,506 States Air Force retired and his wife 121 00:07:21,506 --> 00:07:20,399 Deborah . 122 00:07:27,549 --> 00:07:29,605 In addition , we are very pleased to 123 00:07:29,605 --> 00:07:31,827 have numerous distinguished visitors in 124 00:07:31,827 --> 00:07:33,993 attendance with us today . Please hold 125 00:07:33,993 --> 00:07:32,799 your applause until all the 126 00:07:32,809 --> 00:07:35,031 introductions have been made . We would 127 00:07:35,031 --> 00:07:36,920 like to recognize General Anthony 128 00:07:36,920 --> 00:07:38,753 Cotton Commander , United States 129 00:07:38,753 --> 00:07:40,976 Strategic Command and his wife Marcia , 130 00:07:40,976 --> 00:07:42,865 the honorable Rusty Hike mayor of 131 00:07:42,865 --> 00:07:45,031 Bellevue , the honorable Don Grosser , 132 00:07:45,031 --> 00:07:47,253 mayor of Ralston and his wife Deb , the 133 00:07:47,253 --> 00:07:47,250 honorable Paul Lambert , mayor of 134 00:07:47,260 --> 00:07:49,427 Platts and his guest , MS Emily Bausch 135 00:07:49,427 --> 00:07:51,739 Plats City administrator , Mr Brent 136 00:07:51,750 --> 00:07:53,694 Christensen Foreign Policy Advisor 137 00:07:53,694 --> 00:07:55,583 United States Strategic Command , 138 00:07:55,583 --> 00:07:57,694 Brigadier General Ann Marie Anthony , 139 00:07:57,694 --> 00:07:59,528 Director , joint electromagnetic 140 00:07:59,528 --> 00:08:01,528 spectrum operations , United States 141 00:08:01,528 --> 00:08:03,639 Strategic Command , Brigadier General 142 00:08:03,639 --> 00:08:05,694 Paul Cohen , United States Air Force 143 00:08:05,694 --> 00:08:07,750 retired Mr Chad Stevenson , director 144 00:08:07,750 --> 00:08:10,083 Enterprise center United States dot com , 145 00:08:10,083 --> 00:08:12,028 excuse me , Strategic Command . Mr 146 00:08:12,028 --> 00:08:13,806 Kevin Hubert , representing the 147 00:08:13,806 --> 00:08:15,861 honorable Dev Fisher United States , 148 00:08:15,861 --> 00:08:17,861 Senator for Nebraska , Mister Felix 149 00:08:17,861 --> 00:08:20,028 Ungermann , representing the honorable 150 00:08:20,028 --> 00:08:19,640 Don Bacon United States House of 151 00:08:19,649 --> 00:08:21,760 Representatives for Nebraska's second 152 00:08:21,760 --> 00:08:23,760 congressional district and his wife 153 00:08:23,760 --> 00:08:26,019 Katina M Deb Shore representing the 154 00:08:26,029 --> 00:08:27,973 honorable Mike Flood United States 155 00:08:27,973 --> 00:08:30,196 House of Representatives for Nebraska's 156 00:08:30,196 --> 00:08:32,362 first congressional district . Colonel 157 00:08:32,362 --> 00:08:34,640 Erica Flanagan , deputy Chief of staff , 158 00:08:34,640 --> 00:08:36,862 United States Strategic Command chief , 159 00:08:36,862 --> 00:08:39,085 Master Sergeant Kenneth Bruce command , 160 00:08:39,085 --> 00:08:41,418 chief 16 th Air Force , Mr Mike Royster , 161 00:08:41,418 --> 00:08:43,640 spouse of Melissa Royster Command chief 162 00:08:43,640 --> 00:08:45,751 55th Wing Mrs Stacy Werth , spouse of 163 00:08:45,751 --> 00:08:47,696 Rear Admiral Robert Worth , Deputy 164 00:08:47,696 --> 00:08:49,696 Director of strategic targeting and 165 00:08:49,696 --> 00:08:51,585 nuclear mission planning , United 166 00:08:51,585 --> 00:08:53,585 States Strategic Command . We would 167 00:08:53,585 --> 00:08:55,696 also like to extend a warm welcome to 168 00:08:55,696 --> 00:08:57,640 all former 55th Wing and vice wing 169 00:08:57,640 --> 00:08:59,696 commanders , former command chiefs , 170 00:08:59,696 --> 00:08:59,539 active and retired group and squadron 171 00:08:59,549 --> 00:09:01,799 commanders , chiefs , first sergeants , 172 00:09:01,809 --> 00:09:03,865 the office , Advisory Council , 55th 173 00:09:03,865 --> 00:09:05,976 Wing Association , friends and family 174 00:09:05,976 --> 00:09:08,142 and the men and women of team off that 175 00:09:08,142 --> 00:09:09,420 are joining us today . 176 00:09:16,820 --> 00:09:18,931 Ladies and gentlemen , it is an honor 177 00:09:18,931 --> 00:09:20,931 to introduce to you . Our presiding 178 00:09:20,931 --> 00:09:23,098 officer , Lieutenant General Kevin B . 179 00:09:23,098 --> 00:09:25,209 Kennedy Commander . 16 th Air Force . 180 00:09:26,950 --> 00:09:30,679 Yeah . All right . Well , good morning . 181 00:09:31,969 --> 00:09:34,136 What a fantastic morning . And , and , 182 00:09:34,136 --> 00:09:36,302 you know , I came in from Texas . It's 183 00:09:36,302 --> 00:09:38,636 over 100 degrees . I'd rather stay here . 184 00:09:38,636 --> 00:09:40,469 It's fantastic . Plus I'm a huge 185 00:09:40,469 --> 00:09:42,747 baseball fan for college baseball . So , 186 00:09:42,747 --> 00:09:44,913 you know , I am torn tomorrow . I'm an 187 00:09:44,913 --> 00:09:47,025 AC C family , but I like Paul schemes 188 00:09:47,025 --> 00:09:49,191 so we'll have to see either way it's a 189 00:09:49,191 --> 00:09:51,510 win tomorrow or tonight today . Thank 190 00:09:51,520 --> 00:09:53,687 you for joining the airmen of the 55th 191 00:09:53,687 --> 00:09:55,640 Wing as we mark a key milestone in 192 00:09:55,650 --> 00:09:58,039 their history . The change of command 193 00:09:58,049 --> 00:10:00,669 from Colonel Kristen KT Thompson to 194 00:10:00,679 --> 00:10:03,010 Colonel Mark Chilly Howard . Our 195 00:10:03,020 --> 00:10:05,190 narrator has introduced many of our 196 00:10:05,200 --> 00:10:07,256 distinguished guests today . General 197 00:10:07,256 --> 00:10:09,533 Cotton . Thank you for coming , Marsha . 198 00:10:09,533 --> 00:10:11,756 Very nice to meet you and thank you for 199 00:10:11,756 --> 00:10:11,250 coming as well . And our two mayors , 200 00:10:11,260 --> 00:10:13,316 thank you for your continued support 201 00:10:13,316 --> 00:10:15,427 for the base and for being here today 202 00:10:15,427 --> 00:10:17,649 and everyone else that's here . I offer 203 00:10:17,649 --> 00:10:19,927 my personal thanks for your attendance . 204 00:10:19,927 --> 00:10:22,149 It means a great deal . Thank you . You 205 00:10:22,149 --> 00:10:24,427 prioritize this event amongst the many , 206 00:10:24,427 --> 00:10:26,427 many demands on your schedule . I'd 207 00:10:26,427 --> 00:10:28,593 also like the team that pulled this to 208 00:10:28,593 --> 00:10:28,570 thank the team that pulled this 209 00:10:28,580 --> 00:10:30,619 ceremony together . As in any 210 00:10:30,630 --> 00:10:32,419 successful military operation , 211 00:10:32,429 --> 00:10:34,262 detailed planning and aggressive 212 00:10:34,262 --> 00:10:36,373 execution are vital ceremonies are no 213 00:10:36,373 --> 00:10:38,429 different for today's ceremonies . I 214 00:10:38,429 --> 00:10:40,596 would like to recognize the airman who 215 00:10:40,596 --> 00:10:42,429 made it a reality . Our projects 216 00:10:42,429 --> 00:10:44,596 officers , Major Kennedy , no relation 217 00:10:44,630 --> 00:10:47,520 and Major Milner , our our narrator , 218 00:10:47,530 --> 00:10:50,429 Captain Roller , the 55th Wing protocol 219 00:10:50,440 --> 00:10:52,640 office , tech sergeant Lang and Mr 220 00:10:52,650 --> 00:10:55,390 Bertos , specifically chaplain Ghana 221 00:10:55,400 --> 00:10:57,820 for the invocation , the bass honor 222 00:10:57,830 --> 00:10:59,886 guard . The many volunteers who help 223 00:10:59,886 --> 00:11:01,950 with logistics and the Heartland of 224 00:11:01,960 --> 00:11:03,849 America band . For that beautiful 225 00:11:03,849 --> 00:11:05,793 rendition of the national anthem , 226 00:11:05,793 --> 00:11:08,016 please join me in a round of applause . 227 00:11:15,099 --> 00:11:17,210 So as the presiding officer today , I 228 00:11:17,210 --> 00:11:20,099 have three tasks , one recognize the 229 00:11:20,109 --> 00:11:22,331 selfless service of Colonel KT Thompson 230 00:11:22,331 --> 00:11:24,442 and the support she received from her 231 00:11:24,442 --> 00:11:26,859 family . Two celebrate the tremendous 232 00:11:26,869 --> 00:11:29,059 accomplishments of the fighting 55th 233 00:11:29,250 --> 00:11:31,472 who flourished under Colonel Thompson's 234 00:11:31,472 --> 00:11:33,890 leadership and three welcome Colonel 235 00:11:33,900 --> 00:11:36,039 Howard and the Howard family to their 236 00:11:36,049 --> 00:11:38,650 new role within the wing . I'll begin 237 00:11:38,659 --> 00:11:40,950 with Colonel Thompson's service leading 238 00:11:40,960 --> 00:11:43,229 a wing of the scale scope and 239 00:11:43,239 --> 00:11:46,200 complexity of the 55th is no small task . 240 00:11:46,909 --> 00:11:49,799 7800 total force airmen , six groups , 241 00:11:49,809 --> 00:11:51,859 31 squadrons and 50 detachments 242 00:11:51,869 --> 00:11:54,429 scattered across the globe in a total 243 00:11:54,440 --> 00:11:57,380 of six worldwide locations . Not only 244 00:11:57,390 --> 00:11:59,501 does she lead the fighting 55th , she 245 00:11:59,501 --> 00:12:01,723 also ensures the welfare and discipline 246 00:12:01,723 --> 00:12:04,059 of the entire off installation and she 247 00:12:04,070 --> 00:12:05,820 helps ensure the mission of us 248 00:12:05,830 --> 00:12:08,380 Strategic Command . Kristen is an 249 00:12:08,390 --> 00:12:11,030 expert at working in the gray with no 250 00:12:11,039 --> 00:12:13,130 checklist . She gets it done . She 251 00:12:13,140 --> 00:12:15,196 understands how to exercise tactical 252 00:12:15,196 --> 00:12:17,362 patience to achieve strategic growth , 253 00:12:17,362 --> 00:12:19,929 allowing the airmen in her wing to grow 254 00:12:20,070 --> 00:12:22,989 as airmen and leaders . She instilled 255 00:12:23,000 --> 00:12:25,167 this same mindset amongst her squadron 256 00:12:25,167 --> 00:12:27,278 commanders making it the key to their 257 00:12:27,278 --> 00:12:29,849 success . KT thanks to your vision and 258 00:12:29,859 --> 00:12:32,559 dedication and deliberate efforts to 259 00:12:32,570 --> 00:12:34,950 empower your team . They elevated to 260 00:12:34,960 --> 00:12:36,627 new heights and unprecedented 261 00:12:36,630 --> 00:12:39,520 achievements . In summary , Colonel 262 00:12:39,530 --> 00:12:41,419 Thompson has led the 55th winging 263 00:12:41,419 --> 00:12:44,390 superbly . Now let's take a moment to 264 00:12:44,400 --> 00:12:46,590 celebrate the 55th wing successes that 265 00:12:46,599 --> 00:12:48,821 occurred during Colonel Thompson's time 266 00:12:48,821 --> 00:12:50,909 in the seat . First normalization of 267 00:12:50,919 --> 00:12:53,030 information warfare operations at the 268 00:12:53,030 --> 00:12:54,808 tactical and operation levels . 269 00:12:54,808 --> 00:12:57,309 Specifically , she drove changes in RC 270 00:12:57,320 --> 00:12:59,700 135 operations and planning for the EC 271 00:12:59,710 --> 00:13:02,469 37 and E seven employment by 272 00:13:02,479 --> 00:13:04,701 integrating our air battle managers and 273 00:13:04,701 --> 00:13:06,701 growing electronic warfare operator 274 00:13:06,701 --> 00:13:09,179 expertise . KT guided critical efforts 275 00:13:09,190 --> 00:13:12,309 to create and activate detachment . One , 276 00:13:12,619 --> 00:13:14,299 detachment , one oversees an 277 00:13:14,309 --> 00:13:16,142 information warfare training and 278 00:13:16,142 --> 00:13:18,719 research environment and training and 279 00:13:18,750 --> 00:13:21,309 follow on training operations . By 280 00:13:21,320 --> 00:13:23,431 doing this . She ensured availability 281 00:13:23,431 --> 00:13:25,598 for the entire United States air Force 282 00:13:25,598 --> 00:13:27,376 and enabled information warfare 283 00:13:27,376 --> 00:13:29,431 readiness and provided opportunities 284 00:13:29,431 --> 00:13:31,376 for information warfare capability 285 00:13:31,376 --> 00:13:33,487 development with our joint partners . 286 00:13:33,487 --> 00:13:35,709 The fighting 55th successfully reopened 287 00:13:35,709 --> 00:13:37,598 off its runway after two years of 288 00:13:37,598 --> 00:13:40,140 construction , the 55 was at the front 289 00:13:40,150 --> 00:13:42,380 of evolving the way we fight as the 290 00:13:42,390 --> 00:13:44,659 sole wing in a NAF to receive 291 00:13:44,669 --> 00:13:47,020 designation as an AC lead wing to 292 00:13:47,030 --> 00:13:49,190 prepare for potential conflict in the 293 00:13:49,200 --> 00:13:52,359 Pacific . Ktu , seamlessly woven 294 00:13:52,369 --> 00:13:54,250 information warfare and airborne 295 00:13:54,260 --> 00:13:57,030 operations into the fabric of 16 th air 296 00:13:57,039 --> 00:13:59,539 force . During competition , 297 00:13:59,549 --> 00:14:01,770 information warfare is the dominant 298 00:14:01,780 --> 00:14:04,002 activity and in Christ , it is the most 299 00:14:04,002 --> 00:14:06,369 vital activity for military operations . 300 00:14:06,580 --> 00:14:09,760 It guides our nation's response during 301 00:14:09,770 --> 00:14:11,826 those periods . It is our mission to 302 00:14:11,826 --> 00:14:14,119 generate insights and expose adversary 303 00:14:14,130 --> 00:14:17,590 intent and malign activity under 304 00:14:17,599 --> 00:14:19,599 Colonel Thompson's leadership , the 305 00:14:19,599 --> 00:14:21,655 airman of the 55th demonstrated that 306 00:14:21,655 --> 00:14:24,150 they are the competition force in our 307 00:14:24,159 --> 00:14:27,479 first call in a crisis as we celebrate 308 00:14:27,489 --> 00:14:29,600 the success of the 55th . It is clear 309 00:14:29,880 --> 00:14:31,824 that Colonel Thompson has been the 310 00:14:31,824 --> 00:14:33,991 right airman to lead this wing at this 311 00:14:33,991 --> 00:14:36,289 moment in our nation's history . But I 312 00:14:36,299 --> 00:14:38,410 would be remiss if I didn't take this 313 00:14:38,410 --> 00:14:40,299 opportunity to thank the Thompson 314 00:14:40,299 --> 00:14:42,466 family . Her mother , Donna Larson and 315 00:14:42,466 --> 00:14:44,688 her husband , Doctor James Larson , her 316 00:14:44,688 --> 00:14:46,743 brother in law Brian and her niece , 317 00:14:46,743 --> 00:14:48,966 Adeline , who is here . You may see her 318 00:14:48,966 --> 00:14:50,799 wandering around your support to 319 00:14:50,799 --> 00:14:50,770 Kristen in the wing of the past two 320 00:14:50,780 --> 00:14:54,380 years has been a gift to our , a gift 321 00:14:54,390 --> 00:14:56,559 of your time , a gift of your energy , 322 00:14:56,580 --> 00:14:58,691 a gift in that you enable Christian's 323 00:14:58,691 --> 00:15:00,802 service and a gift that you willingly 324 00:15:00,802 --> 00:15:02,770 shared . Christen with a few 1000 325 00:15:02,780 --> 00:15:06,000 airmen and their families as we wish 326 00:15:06,020 --> 00:15:08,030 Kristin clear skies for her next 327 00:15:08,039 --> 00:15:09,950 chapter . Please know that we are 328 00:15:09,960 --> 00:15:12,289 forever in your debt , Kat , you've had 329 00:15:12,299 --> 00:15:14,410 a tremendous impact on the defense of 330 00:15:14,410 --> 00:15:16,243 our nation . As you relinquished 331 00:15:16,243 --> 00:15:18,466 command , know you've made a difference 332 00:15:18,466 --> 00:15:20,466 in the lives of our airmen . And we 333 00:15:20,466 --> 00:15:22,688 will be remembered for years to come as 334 00:15:22,688 --> 00:15:24,410 a superb leader , a leader who 335 00:15:24,410 --> 00:15:26,243 epitomized what it means to be a 336 00:15:26,243 --> 00:15:28,355 servant leader , a leader that showed 337 00:15:28,355 --> 00:15:30,521 each and every airman what it means to 338 00:15:30,521 --> 00:15:32,521 live our core values of integrity , 339 00:15:32,521 --> 00:15:34,739 service and excellence . Now , as one 340 00:15:34,750 --> 00:15:36,806 leader departs the pattern , another 341 00:15:36,806 --> 00:15:39,450 enters Colonel Mark Howard is already a 342 00:15:39,460 --> 00:15:42,099 member of the wing leadership team as 343 00:15:42,109 --> 00:15:44,276 the vice commander , he has helped the 344 00:15:44,276 --> 00:15:46,387 wing achieve many of the successes in 345 00:15:46,387 --> 00:15:48,442 the past two years that he will gain 346 00:15:48,442 --> 00:15:50,665 new perspective and meet new challenges 347 00:15:50,665 --> 00:15:52,831 in the wing command seat . Carl Howard 348 00:15:52,831 --> 00:15:54,887 is joined by his family , his wife , 349 00:15:54,887 --> 00:15:56,969 Shannon and his sons and Brandon . I 350 00:15:56,979 --> 00:15:59,257 would normally welcome you to the base . 351 00:15:59,257 --> 00:16:01,479 However , you're pretty well acquainted 352 00:16:01,479 --> 00:16:03,646 with the location and the team here at 353 00:16:03,646 --> 00:16:05,812 the 55th . So instead , I'll say thank 354 00:16:05,812 --> 00:16:07,979 you for your continued support to Mark 355 00:16:07,979 --> 00:16:10,035 and our wing . When selecting a wing 356 00:16:10,035 --> 00:16:12,257 commander , I look for leaders who have 357 00:16:12,257 --> 00:16:14,590 demonstrated the ability to build teams , 358 00:16:14,590 --> 00:16:16,840 communicate their vision and 359 00:16:16,849 --> 00:16:19,016 continually seek a connection with the 360 00:16:19,016 --> 00:16:20,905 airmen who are entrusted to their 361 00:16:20,905 --> 00:16:23,890 command as well as leaders who 362 00:16:23,900 --> 00:16:26,479 continually seek greater understanding 363 00:16:26,679 --> 00:16:29,119 and deeper insight on the mission . 364 00:16:29,130 --> 00:16:31,609 They are charged to lead Colonel Howard . 365 00:16:31,619 --> 00:16:34,159 Is that airman , a California native 366 00:16:34,169 --> 00:16:36,336 and lifelong learner . Carl Howard has 367 00:16:36,336 --> 00:16:38,391 excelled throughout his career . You 368 00:16:38,391 --> 00:16:40,336 can see in your program , the many 369 00:16:40,336 --> 00:16:42,558 positions he has held . What you cannot 370 00:16:42,558 --> 00:16:44,391 see are the many endorsements of 371 00:16:44,391 --> 00:16:46,169 Colonel Howard's leadership and 372 00:16:46,169 --> 00:16:48,510 expertise by his senior leaders . This 373 00:16:48,520 --> 00:16:50,520 includes the Cyber Command , Deputy 374 00:16:50,520 --> 00:16:52,576 commander , the current seven th Air 375 00:16:52,576 --> 00:16:54,742 Force Commander , the current Director 376 00:16:54,742 --> 00:16:56,742 of Strategy Policy and Resources at 377 00:16:56,742 --> 00:16:58,798 headquarters Air Force , and Colonel 378 00:16:58,798 --> 00:17:01,020 Thompson herself . I have no doubt that 379 00:17:01,020 --> 00:17:03,131 Colonel Howard is the right airman to 380 00:17:03,131 --> 00:17:05,242 take the flight from Colonel Thompson 381 00:17:05,242 --> 00:17:07,353 and lead the 55th to new heights . In 382 00:17:07,353 --> 00:17:09,464 closing , I want to speak directly to 383 00:17:09,464 --> 00:17:11,520 the airmen in the formation , seated 384 00:17:11,520 --> 00:17:13,853 behind the audience , the fighting 55th , 385 00:17:13,853 --> 00:17:17,079 we are in a decisive decade , a decade 386 00:17:17,089 --> 00:17:18,867 that will set the course of our 387 00:17:18,867 --> 00:17:21,145 nation's security for the next century . 388 00:17:21,229 --> 00:17:23,396 In this decade , the People's Republic 389 00:17:23,396 --> 00:17:25,507 of China will be the facing challenge 390 00:17:25,507 --> 00:17:27,673 and Russia will remain an acute threat 391 00:17:27,673 --> 00:17:29,896 to our nation's security . You are in a 392 00:17:29,896 --> 00:17:32,839 unique position you are pursuing and 393 00:17:32,849 --> 00:17:35,130 exposing our adversaries each and every 394 00:17:35,140 --> 00:17:38,790 day . You are shaping the future of 395 00:17:38,800 --> 00:17:40,967 information warfare through excellence 396 00:17:40,967 --> 00:17:43,439 in is R and electronic warfare . Your 397 00:17:43,449 --> 00:17:46,349 knowledge , your expertise will remain 398 00:17:46,359 --> 00:17:48,819 in high demand . I'm incredibly proud 399 00:17:48,829 --> 00:17:50,940 of your accomplishments under Colonel 400 00:17:50,940 --> 00:17:53,162 Thompson's leadership . And I'm looking 401 00:17:53,162 --> 00:17:52,500 forward to seeing what you will achieve 402 00:17:52,510 --> 00:17:54,677 with Colonel Howard in the seat , your 403 00:17:54,677 --> 00:17:56,930 leadership , your air force and your 404 00:17:56,939 --> 00:17:59,699 nation are on your wing as our song 405 00:17:59,709 --> 00:18:01,949 says off , we go . Thank you . 406 00:18:07,900 --> 00:18:11,609 Yeah . Thank you , 407 00:18:11,619 --> 00:18:13,897 General Kennedy . Ladies and gentlemen , 408 00:18:13,897 --> 00:18:15,675 please stand as General Kennedy 409 00:18:15,675 --> 00:18:17,619 presents Colonel Thompson with the 410 00:18:17,619 --> 00:18:16,979 legion of merit . 411 00:18:22,920 --> 00:18:26,219 What was the order attention to orders ? 412 00:18:26,229 --> 00:18:27,819 Colonel Kristen D Thompson 413 00:18:27,829 --> 00:18:29,996 distinguished herself by exceptionally 414 00:18:29,996 --> 00:18:32,162 meritorious conduct in the performance 415 00:18:32,162 --> 00:18:34,218 of outstanding service to the United 416 00:18:34,218 --> 00:18:36,329 States as commander 55 th Wing off at 417 00:18:36,329 --> 00:18:38,496 Air Force Base , Nebraska from 18 June 418 00:18:38,496 --> 00:18:42,219 2021 to 22 . June 2023 . During this 419 00:18:42,229 --> 00:18:44,340 period , Colonel Thompson's exemplary 420 00:18:44,340 --> 00:18:46,451 ability , diligence , and devotion to 421 00:18:46,451 --> 00:18:48,673 duty were instrumental to the Air force 422 00:18:48,673 --> 00:18:50,896 and nation . Her leadership was pivotal 423 00:18:50,896 --> 00:18:53,118 in guiding air combat command's largest 424 00:18:53,118 --> 00:18:54,920 wing consisting of over 10,500 425 00:18:54,930 --> 00:18:57,579 personnel , six groups and 31 squadrons 426 00:18:57,589 --> 00:18:59,533 across 11 geographically separated 427 00:18:59,533 --> 00:19:01,900 units , executing intelligence , 428 00:19:01,910 --> 00:19:03,799 surveillance and reconnaissance , 429 00:19:03,799 --> 00:19:05,966 electronic attack , global command and 430 00:19:05,966 --> 00:19:08,339 control and nuclear command control and 431 00:19:08,349 --> 00:19:10,571 communications . On behalf of combatant 432 00:19:10,571 --> 00:19:12,460 commanders across the globe , her 433 00:19:12,460 --> 00:19:14,682 dynamic leadership was key to providing 434 00:19:14,682 --> 00:19:16,905 critical intelligence to senior leaders 435 00:19:16,905 --> 00:19:18,793 in the evolving European and Indo 436 00:19:18,793 --> 00:19:20,905 Pacific commands . Epitomizing the 55 437 00:19:20,905 --> 00:19:22,905 th wings global contribution to the 438 00:19:22,905 --> 00:19:25,127 information warfare mission . She drove 439 00:19:25,127 --> 00:19:27,182 the groundbreaking of a $200 million 440 00:19:27,182 --> 00:19:28,738 nuclear command control and 441 00:19:28,738 --> 00:19:30,905 communications campus , overseeing the 442 00:19:30,905 --> 00:19:32,960 successful return to full operations 443 00:19:32,960 --> 00:19:35,182 and setting the enterprise standard for 444 00:19:35,182 --> 00:19:37,238 electromagnetic spectrum integration 445 00:19:37,238 --> 00:19:39,589 across six flying platforms . Due to 446 00:19:39,599 --> 00:19:41,599 her decisive leadership , the 55 th 447 00:19:41,599 --> 00:19:43,710 wing was named one of five lead wings 448 00:19:43,710 --> 00:19:45,877 under air combat command and sharing a 449 00:19:45,877 --> 00:19:47,821 smooth transition into the new air 450 00:19:47,821 --> 00:19:49,766 force force generation model . She 451 00:19:49,766 --> 00:19:51,932 adeptly reinforced partnerships within 452 00:19:51,932 --> 00:19:53,988 the local Omaha community supporting 453 00:19:53,988 --> 00:19:56,969 over 57,000 personnel and 51 tenant 454 00:19:56,979 --> 00:19:59,640 units including the 557 th weather wing 455 00:19:59,739 --> 00:20:01,683 defense prisoner of war missing in 456 00:20:01,683 --> 00:20:04,410 action . Accounting agency 595 Command 457 00:20:04,420 --> 00:20:06,420 and Control Group and United States 458 00:20:06,420 --> 00:20:08,939 Strategic Command . Lastly , Colonel 459 00:20:08,949 --> 00:20:10,782 Thompson delivered a new forward 460 00:20:10,782 --> 00:20:13,005 operating location in Alaska bolstering 461 00:20:13,005 --> 00:20:14,727 joint multi domain operational 462 00:20:14,727 --> 00:20:17,005 capabilities across combatant commands , 463 00:20:17,005 --> 00:20:19,227 strengthening the United States and the 464 00:20:19,227 --> 00:20:20,949 United Kingdom partnership and 465 00:20:20,949 --> 00:20:22,782 ultimately securing a key combat 466 00:20:22,782 --> 00:20:24,893 alliance for European Command and the 467 00:20:24,893 --> 00:20:26,838 North Atlantic Treaty Organization 468 00:20:26,838 --> 00:20:29,005 commanders , the superior initiative , 469 00:20:29,005 --> 00:20:31,005 outstanding leadership and personal 470 00:20:31,005 --> 00:20:33,282 endeavor displayed by Colonel Thompson . 471 00:20:33,282 --> 00:20:35,338 Reflect great credit upon herself in 472 00:20:35,338 --> 00:20:35,180 the United States Air Force . 473 00:21:00,969 --> 00:21:03,025 Thank you , General Kennedy . Ladies 474 00:21:03,025 --> 00:21:05,302 and gentlemen , please take your seats . 475 00:21:05,302 --> 00:21:07,358 It is my honor to present to you the 476 00:21:07,358 --> 00:21:09,413 commander of the 55th wing , Colonel 477 00:21:09,413 --> 00:21:12,469 Kristen Thompson got out there . 478 00:21:13,810 --> 00:21:14,810 You , 479 00:21:19,119 --> 00:21:21,859 oh man . Ok . 480 00:21:23,020 --> 00:21:25,920 Well , I I will begin how I always do 481 00:21:25,930 --> 00:21:28,400 with changes of command . This is 482 00:21:28,410 --> 00:21:31,550 freaking awesome . And if you know me , 483 00:21:31,560 --> 00:21:33,504 it's really hard for me to hide my 484 00:21:33,504 --> 00:21:35,671 enthusiasm . But today , it's really , 485 00:21:35,671 --> 00:21:37,890 really hard , mainly because I love 486 00:21:37,900 --> 00:21:40,390 this wing and base so much . And I'm 487 00:21:40,400 --> 00:21:42,660 proud to be an honorary Nebraskan . 488 00:21:42,900 --> 00:21:44,956 It's the best feeling in the world . 489 00:21:45,430 --> 00:21:47,430 I'll start first with . Thank you . 490 00:21:47,430 --> 00:21:49,319 These are the folks that made the 491 00:21:49,319 --> 00:21:51,750 extraordinary look easy . Huge . Shout 492 00:21:51,760 --> 00:21:53,760 out to our dear honor , guard , the 493 00:21:53,760 --> 00:21:55,927 Heartland of America Band , the legend 494 00:21:55,927 --> 00:21:58,290 that is ski and team protocol . The 495 00:21:58,300 --> 00:22:00,760 change of command po CS Ashley Milner 496 00:22:00,770 --> 00:22:03,119 Anne Marie Kennedy Brett Hanen Burger , 497 00:22:03,170 --> 00:22:05,281 our public affairs , rock star , Ryan 498 00:22:05,281 --> 00:22:08,189 Hansen and his team , my dear friend 499 00:22:08,219 --> 00:22:10,640 and chaplain of 17 years , chaplain 500 00:22:10,650 --> 00:22:13,400 Guida , the 55th wing front office and 501 00:22:13,410 --> 00:22:15,688 everyone else who helped along the way . 502 00:22:16,430 --> 00:22:18,652 Thank you very much to the DVS that are 503 00:22:18,652 --> 00:22:20,763 here and that means so much to me and 504 00:22:20,763 --> 00:22:22,708 to this wing including General Mrs 505 00:22:22,708 --> 00:22:25,520 Cotton . Mayor Hike , Mayor Lambert , 506 00:22:25,560 --> 00:22:27,616 our distinguished leaders of off and 507 00:22:27,616 --> 00:22:30,449 our community Chief Bruce , our office , 508 00:22:30,459 --> 00:22:33,170 advisory council , my dear neighbors on 509 00:22:33,180 --> 00:22:36,540 the row . Commanders , chiefs , first 510 00:22:36,550 --> 00:22:38,772 sergeants , friends , family and airmen 511 00:22:38,772 --> 00:22:40,994 of the fight in 55th . Thank you all so 512 00:22:40,994 --> 00:22:44,650 much for being here . Lieutenant 513 00:22:44,660 --> 00:22:47,130 General Kennedy . Wow , sir , from our 514 00:22:47,140 --> 00:22:49,939 shared times back at over a decade ago 515 00:22:49,949 --> 00:22:52,479 to now , I'm so very grateful to have 516 00:22:52,489 --> 00:22:54,719 you as a boss . Thank you for taking 517 00:22:54,729 --> 00:22:56,840 such good care of a little major that 518 00:22:56,840 --> 00:22:59,150 was wide eyed and eager to learn to a 519 00:22:59,160 --> 00:23:00,938 wing commander who now wants to 520 00:23:00,938 --> 00:23:03,650 replicate and emulate everything you do 521 00:23:03,750 --> 00:23:07,319 and everything you stand for . You . 522 00:23:07,410 --> 00:23:09,577 Major , General Gatica and Chief Bruce 523 00:23:09,577 --> 00:23:11,577 are leading the Air Force with your 524 00:23:11,577 --> 00:23:13,688 ideas , your drive and your passion . 525 00:23:13,699 --> 00:23:15,949 You help us all within 16 th Air Force 526 00:23:15,959 --> 00:23:18,270 anticipate new challenges and look for 527 00:23:18,280 --> 00:23:20,502 new air power solutions to solve them . 528 00:23:20,689 --> 00:23:23,079 This is what our nation expects and I'm 529 00:23:23,089 --> 00:23:25,311 glad to have you as a boss and numbered 530 00:23:25,311 --> 00:23:27,311 Air Force commander to do this very 531 00:23:27,311 --> 00:23:29,829 thing and to the fantastic leaders , 532 00:23:29,839 --> 00:23:31,839 I've had the privilege to serve and 533 00:23:31,839 --> 00:23:33,839 work with over the last two years . 534 00:23:33,839 --> 00:23:36,359 Group commanders , Jason Cooley Kyle , 535 00:23:36,369 --> 00:23:39,849 Clement Bull Rachel Mo Olson Wendy Sw 536 00:23:40,280 --> 00:23:43,400 Chris back and Matt Hensley , this team 537 00:23:43,410 --> 00:23:45,632 of commanders and their sc are the best 538 00:23:45,632 --> 00:23:47,521 in the biz . Thank you for always 539 00:23:47,521 --> 00:23:49,890 standing , strong , standing , proud , 540 00:23:49,900 --> 00:23:52,010 making the tough calls and for never 541 00:23:52,020 --> 00:23:55,839 giving up on your airmen chief 542 00:23:55,859 --> 00:23:59,229 roster , chief . Thanks for taking such 543 00:23:59,239 --> 00:24:01,520 good care of our wing and our airmen , 544 00:24:01,959 --> 00:24:04,829 everyone . And I mean , everyone is 545 00:24:04,839 --> 00:24:06,969 grateful for your steady example and 546 00:24:06,979 --> 00:24:08,923 for showing us it's ok to pour our 547 00:24:08,923 --> 00:24:11,035 hearts out for our airmen and what we 548 00:24:11,035 --> 00:24:13,201 believe in the heart and soul . You've 549 00:24:13,201 --> 00:24:15,201 poured into me and everyone else in 550 00:24:15,201 --> 00:24:17,510 this hangar is unmatched chief . We 551 00:24:17,520 --> 00:24:20,569 love you . You'll see many of my kids 552 00:24:20,579 --> 00:24:22,412 running around helping with this 553 00:24:22,412 --> 00:24:24,523 ceremony too . They are family for me 554 00:24:24,523 --> 00:24:26,746 when I needed family . They bestowed on 555 00:24:26,746 --> 00:24:28,912 me so much love , grace and compassion 556 00:24:28,979 --> 00:24:31,069 guys . I'm forever grateful for your 557 00:24:31,079 --> 00:24:33,599 support and for just being you at all 558 00:24:33,609 --> 00:24:36,439 times . I trusted you guys implicitly 559 00:24:36,449 --> 00:24:38,670 with the toughest of problems and you 560 00:24:38,680 --> 00:24:41,530 delivered every single time . I could 561 00:24:41,540 --> 00:24:43,762 not be more proud of you and I love you 562 00:24:43,762 --> 00:24:46,219 all dearly flipper . Thanks for killing 563 00:24:46,229 --> 00:24:48,118 it on the mic . If you don't know 564 00:24:48,118 --> 00:24:50,229 Captain Christina Roller , you should 565 00:24:50,229 --> 00:24:52,396 get to know her . She is outstanding . 566 00:24:52,410 --> 00:24:55,969 Well done as always flipper . Many of 567 00:24:55,979 --> 00:24:58,035 you have heard me say this , but the 568 00:24:58,035 --> 00:25:00,146 strength of this wing is due in large 569 00:25:00,146 --> 00:25:02,146 part to the leaders of the squadron 570 00:25:02,146 --> 00:25:04,257 level . My dear squadron commanders . 571 00:25:04,257 --> 00:25:06,368 All 31 of you , you guys are the most 572 00:25:06,368 --> 00:25:08,201 important humans in my life as a 573 00:25:08,201 --> 00:25:10,670 commander . And I'm so proud of all of 574 00:25:10,680 --> 00:25:13,010 you every day I spend with each of you . 575 00:25:13,020 --> 00:25:15,270 My life is enriched . We were 576 00:25:15,280 --> 00:25:17,391 successful as a wing because you guys 577 00:25:17,391 --> 00:25:19,729 made us successful . I can't stress 578 00:25:19,739 --> 00:25:21,961 that enough . The harmony I see between 579 00:25:21,961 --> 00:25:24,128 the squadron commanders is my proudest 580 00:25:24,128 --> 00:25:25,961 achievement and they are my most 581 00:25:25,961 --> 00:25:28,128 treasured gifts . So if you'll indulge 582 00:25:28,128 --> 00:25:30,072 me a little , I would like to talk 583 00:25:30,072 --> 00:25:32,295 about what makes the fighting 55th . So 584 00:25:32,295 --> 00:25:34,128 awesome . You give this wing any 585 00:25:34,128 --> 00:25:36,949 problem and it will crush it . Ace 586 00:25:37,180 --> 00:25:40,989 Chinese intercepts COVID recovery base 587 00:25:41,000 --> 00:25:43,500 defense NC three support , 588 00:25:43,510 --> 00:25:46,160 expeditionary calms . It's what we do 589 00:25:46,170 --> 00:25:48,500 here in the fight in 55th , we innovate 590 00:25:48,510 --> 00:25:51,079 and we fight and together as a wing , 591 00:25:51,089 --> 00:25:53,256 we place emphasis on three things that 592 00:25:53,256 --> 00:25:55,439 help us fight . They are mission , 593 00:25:55,550 --> 00:25:59,060 family and relationships . MFR . 594 00:25:59,839 --> 00:26:02,109 So let's start with mission . This wing 595 00:26:02,119 --> 00:26:04,560 has a global impact from Mo Olsen's 596 00:26:04,569 --> 00:26:06,780 indomitable electronic combat group 597 00:26:06,790 --> 00:26:08,910 that flies the sturdy tank that jams 598 00:26:08,920 --> 00:26:11,439 like a boss to our operating locations 599 00:26:11,449 --> 00:26:14,859 at Elmendorf Mildenhall , Digby , Suda 600 00:26:14,880 --> 00:26:17,969 Bay , Aud Kadi and everywhere else in 601 00:26:17,979 --> 00:26:20,201 between . Whenever the nation needs the 602 00:26:20,201 --> 00:26:22,312 55th wing , we are present and we are 603 00:26:22,312 --> 00:26:24,540 engaged and we have an extensive shoot 604 00:26:24,550 --> 00:26:27,060 list . We will bring dominant airpower 605 00:26:27,069 --> 00:26:29,236 and all five Air Force Corps functions 606 00:26:29,236 --> 00:26:32,130 to bear no one else does this . It's 607 00:26:32,140 --> 00:26:34,939 our calling card . 4 , 200 sorties , 608 00:26:34,949 --> 00:26:38,209 3500 personnel deployed 13,000 hours , 609 00:26:38,219 --> 00:26:40,819 flown a year simultaneously covering 10 610 00:26:40,829 --> 00:26:43,650 time zones while airborne 22 of 24 611 00:26:43,660 --> 00:26:46,890 hours a day . Kyle , we have you and 612 00:26:46,900 --> 00:26:48,900 our incredible maintenance group to 613 00:26:48,900 --> 00:26:51,122 thank for those unbelievable stats when 614 00:26:51,122 --> 00:26:53,344 our nation needs the fight in 55th , we 615 00:26:53,344 --> 00:26:57,030 are ready now to RF and MFR 616 00:26:57,040 --> 00:27:00,020 family . I am honored that off . It is 617 00:27:00,030 --> 00:27:02,141 part of the fabric that knits our Air 618 00:27:02,141 --> 00:27:04,363 Force and Nebraska family together . We 619 00:27:04,363 --> 00:27:06,410 have 57,000 people outside the wire 620 00:27:06,420 --> 00:27:08,750 that depend on the 55th wing daily . 621 00:27:09,170 --> 00:27:11,337 When you are the most deployed wing in 622 00:27:11,337 --> 00:27:13,392 the Air force , you have to get that 623 00:27:13,392 --> 00:27:15,790 support right ? We have the best FSS in 624 00:27:15,800 --> 00:27:18,099 the Air Force and when magician Davis 625 00:27:18,109 --> 00:27:20,550 does magical things , our families and 626 00:27:20,560 --> 00:27:23,969 community thrive relationships . 627 00:27:24,400 --> 00:27:26,567 This is where Kristen Thompson , Chili 628 00:27:26,567 --> 00:27:28,810 Howard and Melissa Roister spent a lot 629 00:27:28,819 --> 00:27:30,930 of their leadership capital , whether 630 00:27:30,939 --> 00:27:32,995 it was moving the 5 95th command and 631 00:27:32,995 --> 00:27:35,106 control group into their new E four B 632 00:27:35,106 --> 00:27:37,449 hangar watching team DP A bring our 633 00:27:37,459 --> 00:27:40,359 fallen warriors home scene . Com 634 00:27:40,369 --> 00:27:42,313 Absolutely set the tone for how we 635 00:27:42,313 --> 00:27:44,859 deter two near peer nuclear capable 636 00:27:44,869 --> 00:27:47,160 adversaries simultaneously or 637 00:27:47,170 --> 00:27:49,226 witnessing everyday integration with 638 00:27:49,226 --> 00:27:51,337 our 170 th group Air National Guard . 639 00:27:51,337 --> 00:27:53,790 Teammates . Relationships here are 640 00:27:53,800 --> 00:27:56,729 pivotal and as a wing , we also place 641 00:27:56,739 --> 00:27:58,900 value on our three eyes integration , 642 00:27:58,910 --> 00:28:01,132 indispensability and taking care of the 643 00:28:01,132 --> 00:28:03,410 individual airmen . And if you know me , 644 00:28:03,410 --> 00:28:06,430 I take great pride in being a war 645 00:28:06,439 --> 00:28:08,689 fighting wing daily , we were able to 646 00:28:08,699 --> 00:28:10,532 prove our lethality . And I'm so 647 00:28:10,532 --> 00:28:12,421 grateful to the commander of AC C 648 00:28:12,421 --> 00:28:14,699 General Kelly for giving the 55th wing 649 00:28:14,709 --> 00:28:16,876 an opportunity to lead and demonstrate 650 00:28:16,969 --> 00:28:19,150 our indispensability as an AC C lead 651 00:28:19,160 --> 00:28:21,160 wing . He placed a lot of faith and 652 00:28:21,160 --> 00:28:23,327 trust in our leaders here to carry his 653 00:28:23,327 --> 00:28:25,271 vision forward and you all did not 654 00:28:25,271 --> 00:28:27,420 disappoint . But where I'm most proud 655 00:28:27,430 --> 00:28:29,541 is how we take care of the individual 656 00:28:29,541 --> 00:28:32,349 airmen here at off it . We praise , we 657 00:28:32,359 --> 00:28:34,540 prize the beauty and brilliance of our 658 00:28:34,550 --> 00:28:37,780 folks through the rev sort Athena 659 00:28:37,829 --> 00:28:39,773 Warhawk leadership course , flight 660 00:28:39,773 --> 00:28:41,810 commander , course , top four focus 661 00:28:41,819 --> 00:28:44,510 group two North . You all are 662 00:28:44,520 --> 00:28:46,687 marketable in Car , in your caring and 663 00:28:46,687 --> 00:28:49,390 compassion . And when Chili Chief and I 664 00:28:49,400 --> 00:28:51,511 get to hug on the necks of those that 665 00:28:51,511 --> 00:28:53,789 demonstrate their excellence every day , 666 00:28:53,789 --> 00:28:56,819 there is nothing better and many of the 667 00:28:56,829 --> 00:28:59,229 airmen that I hugged graciously did the 668 00:28:59,239 --> 00:29:02,540 same for me . Some know my younger 669 00:29:02,550 --> 00:29:05,270 sister , Carrie passed just about a 670 00:29:05,280 --> 00:29:08,119 year ago from skin cancer . Losing her 671 00:29:08,130 --> 00:29:10,199 was life defining , but it was also 672 00:29:10,209 --> 00:29:13,579 life encouraging . She was 39 Air Force 673 00:29:13,589 --> 00:29:17,239 Academy class of 2004 wife , mom , 674 00:29:17,250 --> 00:29:19,500 daughter and sister . I tried to live 675 00:29:19,510 --> 00:29:21,869 her self , selfless example every day 676 00:29:21,959 --> 00:29:24,070 she cared for everyone and encouraged 677 00:29:24,070 --> 00:29:26,292 me to always drive forward . And I like 678 00:29:26,292 --> 00:29:28,403 to think that's what we do here too . 679 00:29:28,439 --> 00:29:30,383 Carrie's husband , Brian and their 680 00:29:30,383 --> 00:29:32,550 daughter , Adeline are here and I love 681 00:29:32,550 --> 00:29:34,717 you both very much , Brian . Thank you 682 00:29:34,717 --> 00:29:36,739 for coming . Carrie . No , no doubt 683 00:29:36,750 --> 00:29:38,917 loves that . You and Adeline are at an 684 00:29:38,917 --> 00:29:41,439 air force ceremony this day would not 685 00:29:41,449 --> 00:29:44,780 have been right without you here . Mom . 686 00:29:44,790 --> 00:29:47,540 Thanks for being a rock . Your strength 687 00:29:47,550 --> 00:29:51,050 and fight are otherworldly and super 688 00:29:51,060 --> 00:29:54,020 human and remarkable . I like to think 689 00:29:54,030 --> 00:29:55,974 that my sister got her strength to 690 00:29:55,974 --> 00:29:58,660 fight from you . I know I did . I have 691 00:29:58,670 --> 00:30:00,781 some small gifts to thank you all for 692 00:30:00,781 --> 00:30:02,780 being awesome . I love you guys . 693 00:30:16,170 --> 00:30:18,392 That's just a small glimpse into taking 694 00:30:18,392 --> 00:30:20,392 care of the individual airmen . But 695 00:30:20,392 --> 00:30:22,614 there are many more . We placed a human 696 00:30:22,614 --> 00:30:24,837 face on the mission which allowed us to 697 00:30:24,837 --> 00:30:27,059 convey commander's intent and reach our 698 00:30:27,059 --> 00:30:29,114 airmen's hearts and minds and now to 699 00:30:29,114 --> 00:30:31,459 dearest chilly , chilly . I am forever 700 00:30:31,469 --> 00:30:33,413 grateful . I was able to take this 701 00:30:33,413 --> 00:30:35,413 command journey with you . Our team 702 00:30:35,413 --> 00:30:37,580 work , but your dogged determination , 703 00:30:37,580 --> 00:30:39,469 professionalism , persistence and 704 00:30:39,469 --> 00:30:41,191 patience , paid dividends . We 705 00:30:41,191 --> 00:30:43,358 appreciate all you did to drive our $1 706 00:30:43,358 --> 00:30:45,469 billion flood recovery to improve our 707 00:30:45,469 --> 00:30:47,413 combat focus , robust our exercise 708 00:30:47,413 --> 00:30:49,469 calendar , build an a staff and take 709 00:30:49,469 --> 00:30:51,691 our platform into the future . You made 710 00:30:51,691 --> 00:30:53,802 off it better . And I'm proud to have 711 00:30:53,802 --> 00:30:55,691 served alongside of you . You and 712 00:30:55,691 --> 00:30:57,747 Shannon will do magnificently as the 713 00:30:57,747 --> 00:30:59,969 new leaders of the fighting 55th . This 714 00:30:59,969 --> 00:31:03,109 is your wing . Now , I'm often asked , 715 00:31:03,290 --> 00:31:06,449 what's the perfect day in command ? We 716 00:31:06,459 --> 00:31:09,229 had it and let me describe it for you . 717 00:31:10,069 --> 00:31:13,390 It was September 30th 2022 when we 718 00:31:13,400 --> 00:31:16,000 reopened our runway in airfield . The 719 00:31:16,010 --> 00:31:18,329 day started at Lincoln where John 720 00:31:18,339 --> 00:31:21,719 Williams ramp was filled with RC 135 S 721 00:31:21,800 --> 00:31:24,589 and E four S . And thankfully the 722 00:31:24,599 --> 00:31:27,500 weather was perfect . Dewey . Our 723 00:31:27,540 --> 00:31:30,729 maintainers launched all seven aircraft . 724 00:31:30,760 --> 00:31:32,810 The LS moved 25 million tons of 725 00:31:32,819 --> 00:31:34,819 equipment . The OPS groups flew the 726 00:31:34,819 --> 00:31:36,875 jets home with Comac on board and at 727 00:31:36,875 --> 00:31:38,986 the controls , Lyn Hacks airfield was 728 00:31:38,986 --> 00:31:40,989 open for business and team AFC 729 00:31:41,030 --> 00:31:43,030 certified the runway ready for that 730 00:31:43,030 --> 00:31:45,180 first landing . We flew that RJ onto 731 00:31:45,189 --> 00:31:47,245 the new runway with the whole base , 732 00:31:47,245 --> 00:31:49,189 our families community and elected 733 00:31:49,189 --> 00:31:51,356 leaders there to cheer us on if that's 734 00:31:51,356 --> 00:31:53,578 not a great way to celebrate what we do 735 00:31:53,578 --> 00:31:55,689 as airmen , I'm not sure what it is , 736 00:31:55,689 --> 00:31:57,911 it was perfect . And at the 55th wing , 737 00:31:58,000 --> 00:32:00,167 we will never forget . We are a nation 738 00:32:00,167 --> 00:32:02,579 built upon an ideal . Our military is a 739 00:32:02,589 --> 00:32:04,756 national treasure built on the blood , 740 00:32:04,756 --> 00:32:07,560 sweat and tears of our patriots . I'm 741 00:32:07,569 --> 00:32:09,680 very fond of a story of revolutionary 742 00:32:09,680 --> 00:32:11,930 war hero , General Nathaniel Green . 743 00:32:12,839 --> 00:32:15,006 General Green was given command of the 744 00:32:15,006 --> 00:32:17,061 Southern armies during this defining 745 00:32:17,061 --> 00:32:19,228 period and many times during the war , 746 00:32:19,228 --> 00:32:20,950 General Green and his men were 747 00:32:20,950 --> 00:32:22,839 outnumbered , out trained and out 748 00:32:22,839 --> 00:32:25,329 supplied compared to the British . But 749 00:32:25,339 --> 00:32:27,839 Green did have one advantage though it 750 00:32:27,849 --> 00:32:30,069 was his army's will to fight and the 751 00:32:30,079 --> 00:32:32,719 willingness to fight for that ideal . 752 00:32:32,739 --> 00:32:35,130 Despite overwhelmingly tough odds 753 00:32:35,890 --> 00:32:38,569 continually knocked down but not out . 754 00:32:38,579 --> 00:32:40,690 General Green always got the best out 755 00:32:40,690 --> 00:32:42,857 of his team and he got it right . When 756 00:32:42,857 --> 00:32:46,439 he said as Americans , we fight , get 757 00:32:46,449 --> 00:32:49,699 beat , rise and we fight again . 758 00:32:50,510 --> 00:32:52,550 There is nothing more American or 759 00:32:52,560 --> 00:32:56,150 Nebraskan than that mantra . And again , 760 00:32:56,250 --> 00:32:58,083 it's what we believe here in the 761 00:32:58,083 --> 00:33:01,010 fighting . 55th , the sun never sets on 762 00:33:01,020 --> 00:33:03,339 this incredible fighting force . We 763 00:33:03,349 --> 00:33:05,571 foster a culture here that captures our 764 00:33:05,571 --> 00:33:07,627 airmen and nations imagination . Our 765 00:33:07,627 --> 00:33:09,738 civilian leaders , leadership's trust 766 00:33:09,738 --> 00:33:12,599 and our services brilliance . Just ask 767 00:33:12,609 --> 00:33:15,420 General Cotton Congressman . Bacon , 768 00:33:15,709 --> 00:33:17,900 Lieutenant General Kennedy , Chief 769 00:33:17,910 --> 00:33:21,119 Bruce Dewey Stevens or Chief Small 770 00:33:22,099 --> 00:33:24,099 to conclude . Thank you to everyone 771 00:33:24,099 --> 00:33:26,099 here . You humble both Chili and me 772 00:33:26,099 --> 00:33:28,266 with your presence and we love you all 773 00:33:28,266 --> 00:33:30,432 dearly commanding . This wing has been 774 00:33:30,432 --> 00:33:32,599 an honor of a lifetime and I'm forever 775 00:33:32,599 --> 00:33:35,510 grateful . Thank you . Yeah . 776 00:33:37,650 --> 00:33:38,770 Mhm . Yeah . 777 00:33:44,670 --> 00:33:47,369 Thank you , Colonel Thompson . And now 778 00:33:47,380 --> 00:33:49,602 the men and women of the 55th Wing will 779 00:33:49,602 --> 00:33:51,602 honor Colonel Thompson with a final 780 00:33:51,602 --> 00:33:50,810 salute . 781 00:34:08,870 --> 00:34:12,019 Yeah . No . 782 00:34:16,260 --> 00:34:17,260 Mhm . 783 00:34:24,120 --> 00:34:26,342 Ladies and gentlemen , please stand for 784 00:34:26,342 --> 00:34:28,176 the change of command ceremony . 785 00:34:39,770 --> 00:34:43,100 What was the order ? Attention to 786 00:34:43,110 --> 00:34:45,054 orders under the provisions of air 787 00:34:45,054 --> 00:34:48,189 force instruction ? 51-64 . General 788 00:34:48,199 --> 00:34:50,820 order 011 by order of Lieutenant 789 00:34:50,830 --> 00:34:53,780 General Ken B . Kennedy commander 16 th 790 00:34:53,790 --> 00:34:55,969 Air Force , Colonel Kristen D Thompson 791 00:34:55,979 --> 00:34:58,649 commander 55 Wing relinquishes command 792 00:34:58,659 --> 00:35:00,548 and Colonel Mark D Howard assumes 793 00:35:00,548 --> 00:35:02,770 command of the 55th Wing effective this 794 00:35:02,770 --> 00:35:05,280 22nd day of June 2023 . 795 00:35:33,100 --> 00:35:34,100 Yeah . 796 00:35:45,159 --> 00:35:48,800 Yeah . Yeah , 797 00:35:51,229 --> 00:35:54,159 bye . Ladies and gentlemen . I now 798 00:35:54,169 --> 00:35:56,336 present to you the Commander 55th Wing 799 00:35:56,336 --> 00:35:58,225 Colonel Mark D Howard . Please be 800 00:35:58,225 --> 00:35:57,949 seated . 801 00:36:04,790 --> 00:36:07,850 Ladies and gentlemen , Joe Cotton , Mrs 802 00:36:07,860 --> 00:36:09,729 Cotton , mayors , distinguished 803 00:36:09,739 --> 00:36:13,659 visitors , all our guests . I'm 804 00:36:13,669 --> 00:36:15,969 gonna start off a little backwards . 805 00:36:15,979 --> 00:36:18,530 I'm gonna thank my amazing wife first . 806 00:36:19,010 --> 00:36:21,288 Usually you have the wife thanked last , 807 00:36:21,288 --> 00:36:24,070 but Shannon , seriously , thank you so 808 00:36:24,080 --> 00:36:26,302 much . It's been quite a journey to get 809 00:36:26,302 --> 00:36:29,439 to this point . Um Team Howard has been 810 00:36:29,449 --> 00:36:32,379 through some rare and unique challenges 811 00:36:32,389 --> 00:36:35,689 and we are so humbled and honored to 812 00:36:35,699 --> 00:36:38,270 serve this elite group of war fighters . 813 00:36:39,939 --> 00:36:43,270 Both sons are native Nebraskans . Kate 814 00:36:43,280 --> 00:36:45,391 is here with us today . Brandon had a 815 00:36:45,391 --> 00:36:47,447 had a school event that he could not 816 00:36:47,447 --> 00:36:50,620 miss . Um but we are deeply 817 00:36:51,350 --> 00:36:53,989 and , and we cherish Bellevue Nebraska 818 00:36:54,000 --> 00:36:56,111 so much . This is where our roots are 819 00:36:57,669 --> 00:37:00,070 Kate's friends , Alex Andrew John are 820 00:37:00,080 --> 00:37:03,389 here with us each time we 821 00:37:03,399 --> 00:37:06,459 returned , you welcomed us back like we 822 00:37:06,469 --> 00:37:08,689 never left and we thank you so dearly 823 00:37:08,699 --> 00:37:11,649 for that . Like to thank a couple of 824 00:37:11,659 --> 00:37:14,070 folks who , who made this event happen . 825 00:37:14,429 --> 00:37:17,239 Gerald Hack , the former 16th Air Force 826 00:37:17,250 --> 00:37:20,260 commander , now director of National 827 00:37:20,270 --> 00:37:22,729 Security Agency and us cyber com 828 00:37:24,899 --> 00:37:27,350 indebted to him for this opportunity 829 00:37:27,360 --> 00:37:29,860 for sure . Major General Gatica , key 830 00:37:29,870 --> 00:37:31,840 mentor , life coach , the vice 831 00:37:31,850 --> 00:37:33,850 Commander of 16th Air Force General 832 00:37:33,850 --> 00:37:37,189 Manon , the greatest guy to work for no 833 00:37:37,199 --> 00:37:40,889 offense , sir , General Kelly , the 834 00:37:40,899 --> 00:37:43,010 Commander of Air Combat Command , the 835 00:37:43,010 --> 00:37:45,066 benevolent leader . We all aspire to 836 00:37:45,066 --> 00:37:47,580 emulate . And sir , Lieutenant General 837 00:37:47,590 --> 00:37:49,923 Kennedy , allowing for this opportunity , 838 00:37:49,923 --> 00:37:52,146 sir , your trust and confidence will be 839 00:37:52,146 --> 00:37:54,257 at the forefront of every decision we 840 00:37:54,257 --> 00:37:57,219 make as a team . I also want to give a , 841 00:37:58,149 --> 00:38:00,371 a quick recognition to my friend , wing 842 00:38:00,371 --> 00:38:02,482 commander from Scott who flew here on 843 00:38:02,482 --> 00:38:04,760 his own C 21 with his co pilot safely 844 00:38:04,770 --> 00:38:06,937 landed it himself and traveled all the 845 00:38:06,937 --> 00:38:08,992 way here . My , my good friend Chris 846 00:38:08,992 --> 00:38:12,780 Robinson , the finest officer I've ever 847 00:38:12,790 --> 00:38:16,709 met . Hands down . Need to 848 00:38:16,719 --> 00:38:18,800 say hello to a couple of group and 849 00:38:18,810 --> 00:38:21,032 squatter commanders who led us here and 850 00:38:21,032 --> 00:38:22,977 got us to this point tier , Ting . 851 00:38:23,530 --> 00:38:25,586 Thank you for trusting a steely eyed 852 00:38:25,586 --> 00:38:28,199 weapons officer to change your squadron 853 00:38:28,340 --> 00:38:31,379 for good , Mr Chad Stevenson , your 854 00:38:31,389 --> 00:38:34,090 investments in a captain led directly 855 00:38:34,100 --> 00:38:37,260 to this event , Mo Krishna for your 856 00:38:37,270 --> 00:38:39,326 role . Uh He actually told me that I 857 00:38:39,326 --> 00:38:41,326 was going to be one of his squadron 858 00:38:41,326 --> 00:38:43,381 commanders technically before he was 859 00:38:43,381 --> 00:38:45,603 even a group commander and I appreciate 860 00:38:45,603 --> 00:38:47,770 his , his his efforts . He Heininger . 861 00:38:48,570 --> 00:38:51,929 So you signed my first O pr from school 862 00:38:51,939 --> 00:38:54,659 in 2001 ? Forever . Grateful for you . 863 00:38:55,750 --> 00:38:57,639 And I also want to thank some key 864 00:38:57,639 --> 00:38:59,194 mentors , the finest , most 865 00:38:59,194 --> 00:39:01,139 professional enlisted corps in the 866 00:39:01,139 --> 00:39:03,361 world . Master sergeant and first shirt 867 00:39:03,361 --> 00:39:03,239 retired . My father in law , Brad 868 00:39:03,250 --> 00:39:06,179 Charles . You gave me my first saluted 869 00:39:06,189 --> 00:39:09,639 OTs supported team Howard every step of 870 00:39:09,649 --> 00:39:12,850 the way . Master sergeant , retired Dr 871 00:39:12,860 --> 00:39:14,919 spy mender . You took me under your 872 00:39:14,929 --> 00:39:17,151 wing on my first deployment as a leader 873 00:39:17,151 --> 00:39:19,800 on the river . Joint chief master 874 00:39:19,810 --> 00:39:22,032 sergeant , retired Jeff Johnson are now 875 00:39:22,032 --> 00:39:24,530 55 wing tech director and I'm so glad 876 00:39:24,540 --> 00:39:27,310 that we get to continue serving this 877 00:39:27,320 --> 00:39:29,598 great team . I need to thank my family , 878 00:39:29,598 --> 00:39:31,820 Uncle Steve and Pat and Christie JJ . 879 00:39:32,820 --> 00:39:35,489 Cousin Susan and Bill need to say hi to 880 00:39:35,500 --> 00:39:37,722 my mom on Facebook . She wasn't able to 881 00:39:37,722 --> 00:39:40,570 make it today . And Stan and not a KT 882 00:39:42,520 --> 00:39:44,610 two years of , one of the greatest 883 00:39:44,620 --> 00:39:47,219 mentors I've ever worked with . Hands 884 00:39:47,229 --> 00:39:49,679 down . One of the Air Force's finest 885 00:39:49,689 --> 00:39:53,060 brightest stars . One of the best role 886 00:39:53,070 --> 00:39:55,403 models you could ask for . She's humble , 887 00:39:55,403 --> 00:39:59,379 approachable , credible . I am 888 00:39:59,389 --> 00:40:01,333 grateful I can call you friend and 889 00:40:01,333 --> 00:40:04,429 fellow warrior . No one , I'd rather go 890 00:40:04,439 --> 00:40:07,560 to battle with changed the entire 891 00:40:07,570 --> 00:40:10,590 trajectory of this unit broke the 19 892 00:40:10,600 --> 00:40:14,020 nineties mold off it . Enjoy New York 893 00:40:14,030 --> 00:40:16,290 City . You earned it 894 00:40:17,989 --> 00:40:20,260 and one day we'll all get to say I got 895 00:40:20,270 --> 00:40:22,326 to work for her once upon a time and 896 00:40:22,326 --> 00:40:25,649 they'll say no way . Alright . Warhawks . 897 00:40:27,580 --> 00:40:29,679 Your key characteristic is that you 898 00:40:29,689 --> 00:40:32,709 never give up on each other . Our 899 00:40:32,719 --> 00:40:35,129 asymmetric advantage is our war 900 00:40:35,139 --> 00:40:37,689 fighting spirit , especially when it 901 00:40:37,699 --> 00:40:41,560 comes to competition . Our new 902 00:40:41,570 --> 00:40:43,659 systems require new tactics , new 903 00:40:43,669 --> 00:40:46,080 techniques , new procedures and we are 904 00:40:46,090 --> 00:40:48,820 excited and more than ready for that 905 00:40:48,830 --> 00:40:52,080 challenge . Our courage and resolve 906 00:40:52,090 --> 00:40:55,820 will be tested , but we are in this 907 00:40:55,830 --> 00:40:58,610 together and we have what it takes . 908 00:41:00,340 --> 00:41:02,396 Let's get back to work . Thank you . 909 00:41:04,239 --> 00:41:05,239 Yeah . 910 00:41:09,570 --> 00:41:10,189 OK . 911 00:41:13,909 --> 00:41:16,076 Thank you . Colonel Howard and now the 912 00:41:16,076 --> 00:41:18,131 men and women of the 55 will welcome 913 00:41:18,131 --> 00:41:20,353 Colonel Howard with his first salute as 914 00:41:20,353 --> 00:41:20,179 the wing commander . 915 00:41:51,800 --> 00:41:53,911 Ladies and gentlemen , from the great 916 00:41:53,911 --> 00:41:56,189 war fighting traditions of world war I , 917 00:41:56,189 --> 00:41:57,911 when aviation units were first 918 00:41:57,911 --> 00:41:59,689 organized for aerial combat , a 919 00:41:59,689 --> 00:42:01,800 commander's aircraft was painted with 920 00:42:01,800 --> 00:42:01,489 unique markings to distinguish it from 921 00:42:01,500 --> 00:42:03,444 the others . The practice lives on 922 00:42:03,444 --> 00:42:05,611 today in painting the commander's name 923 00:42:05,611 --> 00:42:07,444 on the flagship of the fleet war 924 00:42:07,444 --> 00:42:09,556 fighters from the 55 TH wing take the 925 00:42:09,556 --> 00:42:11,667 fight to the enemy . In RC 135 WC 135 926 00:42:11,667 --> 00:42:13,669 and EC 130 aircraft . The sun never 927 00:42:13,679 --> 00:42:16,159 sets on the fight in 55 . Please direct 928 00:42:16,169 --> 00:42:18,225 your attention to outside the hangar 929 00:42:18,225 --> 00:42:20,113 doors . As staff sergeant , Corey 930 00:42:20,113 --> 00:42:22,280 Bradley presents the wing commander RC 931 00:42:22,280 --> 00:42:24,169 135 rivet joint tail number 842 , 932 00:42:38,530 --> 00:42:40,474 ladies and gentlemen , the men and 933 00:42:40,474 --> 00:42:42,586 women of the fight in 55 are proud to 934 00:42:42,586 --> 00:42:44,697 have served with Colonel Thompson and 935 00:42:44,697 --> 00:42:44,489 wish her good luck and best wishes in 936 00:42:44,500 --> 00:42:46,350 her new assignment . We are also 937 00:42:46,360 --> 00:42:48,471 honored to have Colonel Howard assume 938 00:42:48,471 --> 00:42:50,638 his position as commander of the fight 939 00:42:50,638 --> 00:42:52,693 in 55 . We invite everyone to attend 940 00:42:52,693 --> 00:42:54,916 the reception immediately following the 941 00:42:54,916 --> 00:42:54,669 ceremony at the Warhawk Community 942 00:42:54,679 --> 00:42:56,735 Center . Please remain in your place 943 00:42:56,735 --> 00:42:59,012 until our distinguished visitors exits . 944 00:42:59,060 --> 00:43:01,227 Please stand and join us in the of the 945 00:43:01,227 --> 00:43:02,227 Air Force song . 946 00:43:07,229 --> 00:43:08,229 No , 947 00:44:21,169 --> 00:44:23,391 ladies and gentlemen , on behalf of the 948 00:44:23,391 --> 00:44:25,113 official party . Thank you for 949 00:44:25,113 --> 00:44:25,120 attending our ceremony .