Col. Samuelson assumes command of Component's Logistics Wing

Courtesy Photo | Officially approved by the E-3A Component on Sept. 25, 1984, the Logistics Wing crest has solid blue background with the name of the wing on the top and “NATO E-3A Component” across the bottom. A red griffin is centered and superimposed over a black fortress wall with the NATO star on each side. The griffin was selected because of its dual role in heraldry and mythology. A fabulous animal with the head and talons of an eagle, but the body, hind legs and tail of a lion. In heraldry, it symbolized vigilance, and in mythology, its special function was safeguarding hidden treasure. Both of these roles exemplify the Logistics Wing mission, whose dual role is vigilant protection through use of the NATO E-3A aircraft while ensuring the best possible use of manpower and material – NATO’s treasures.  

GEILENKIRCHEN, NW, GERMANY

07.07.2014

Story by Staff Sgt. Richard Longoria 

NATO E-3A Component

GEILENKIRCHEN, Germany - Col. Frank D. Samuelson assumed command of the E-3A Component’s Logistics Wing July 7, 2014, during a ceremony at Hangar II on NATO Air Base Geilenkirchen, Germany.

With the men and women of the Log Wing standing in formation, Samuelson took responsibility for the organization moments after Col. Paul G. Bell relinquished his command.

Maj. Gen. Andrew M. Mueller, the presiding official for the ceremony, explained that change of command ceremonies are important for two reasons.

“Change of command ceremonies are important for me, not only to let the men and women of the E-3A Component know who is in charge, but also to ensure these commanders know they are in charge and are expected to be guardians of the Component’s mission,” the general said.

At the Component, commanders focus on four lines of effort: effectively running the main operating base, forward operating bases and forward operating location; training the personnel; delivering airborne C2 capability to NATO commanders worldwide; and maintaining and sustaining the fleet of 17 NATO E-3A aircraft.

It is the fourth line of effort, maintaining and sustaining the fleet of 17 NATO E-3A aircraft, which is the mission of the Log Wing.

“Make no mistake – without the Logistics Wing – the E-3A Component would be unable to accomplish the mission,’’ Mueller said.

Under Bell’s leadership, the Log Wing was very successful at their mission and “the numbers tell a remarkable story.”

During his two-and-a-half years as commander, the Log Wing produced 980 sorties, more than 8,500 flying hours, in Afghanistan. They also delivered 105 sorties to support Operation Active Endeavour. Overall, the logistics team generated more than 3,000 E-3A sorties encompassing nearly 20,000 flying hours.

“Most important – on March 1 of this year – despite those who said you were not ready, your team surged to produce E-3A sorties seven days a week to reassure our alliance that we were ready,” General Mueller said.

This determination has allowed the Component to conduct more than 150 flights, approximately, 1,200 flying hours, over Romania and Poland.

Bell took over at a “time of high peace operations” and “injected a steadying force to reconstitute the fleet” while supporting the Component’s operational missions.

“Although I will no longer be able to say that I am in the Logistics Wing, I will always be proud to recall that you allowed me the opportunity to have been in your incomparable organization,” Bell stated. “I wish you only the best and continued success.”

The incoming commander, Samuelson, is “no stranger” to the Component. During his previous tour here, he worked on the NATO Mid-Term project.

“It is your work in that program I’m counting on to carry the Logistics Wing forward through the most-recently approved modernization program and developing longer-term plans to sustain the fleet through 2030,” Mueller explained.

The general added that through the 32-year history of the Component, the success the Component has had is “clearly anchored” in the people.

“Being a leader in the Component is more about giving experienced people the opportunity to succeed rather than constraining their ability with redundant guidance and oversight,” Mueller said.

Samuelson remarked that he was honored to have been selected as the next Log Wing commander.

“I’m very lucky because I am stepping into an experienced and combat-ready unit,” Samuelson said. “The Logistics Wing is in great shape. I’m looking forward to working with everyone as we continue to safeguard the freedom and security of our member nations.”

• Date Taken: 07.07.2014
• Date Posted: 07.17.2014 15:59
• Story ID: 136425
• Location: GEILENKIRCHEN, NW, DE