Largest AFRC associate wing welcomes new commander

  • Published
  • By Senior Master Sgt. Ellen L. Hatfield
  • By 349th Public affairs
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  In an ages old ceremony that introduces the new commander to the troops, the 349th Air Mobility Wing hosted a change of command Nov. 15, at Travis Air Force Base, Calif.

In a huge hangar, against the backdrop of the three weapons systems assigned to the base - the C-5, C-17 and KC-10 - Col. John "Jay" Flournoy assumed command of the wing from Brig. Gen. Maryanne Miller.

Col. Flournoy was given a rousing welcome from the Reserve Airmen, friends, and distinguished visitors from the local community. At the same time, a fond farewell was given to outgoing commander, Gen. Miller, who was selected for the position of Director of Programs and Requirements, Office of the Air Force Reserve, Headquarters United States Air Force, at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C.

"This is a bad news, good news story," said Brig, Gen. Eric Crabtree, 4th Air Force commander, who presided over the ceremony. "The bad news is, they're taking Gen. Miller from you...a person who has received accolades in every job she's held...an innovator and a leader. She is one of the 'rock stars' of the command."

"The good news is, as we take one super star away, we're bringing in another 'rock star' in Col. Flournoy...As I stood in the receiving line at his change of command at Scott AFB, every Airman told me how much he cares about people, and what a tremendous leader and commander he is."

In his address to the assemblage, Col. Flournoy thanked Gen. Crabtree for giving him this command opportunity. "Thank you for having the confidence in me to lead this formation of accomplished Air Mobility superstars. I pledge to continue building on the long established legacy of providing combat ready Citizen Airmen to support the needs of the combatant commanders."

Turning his attention to the Airmen of the wing, the Colonel said, "...warriors of the 349th AMW...your accomplishments speak for themselves and the incredible reputation that you've fostered over many years of dedicated service is well known throughout the Air Force and for this you can be very proud. I will do everything in my power to serve your needs, help overcome the obstacles that prevent you from accomplishing what you've signed up to do, and to then, stay out of the way."

"I am honored to be your commander, and look forward to serving, side by side, with each of you as Wingmen, leaders and warriors who have answered our nation's call. In the words of Lt. Gen. Charles Stenner himself...'let's go to work!"