Photo By 1st Lt. Richard Longoria | Lt. Col. Steven W. Klingsman relinquished command and Lt. Col. Edward T. Spinelli...... read more read more
GEILENKIRCHEN, Germany - The men and women of the NATO AWACS Flying Squadron One watched the leadership of their unit transfer hands July 4, 2014, at NATO Air Base Geilenkirchen, Germany.
The ‘Tigers’ looked on as Lt. Col. Steven W. Klingsman relinquished command and, moments later, as Lt. Col. Edward T. Spinelli assumed command of the squadron during a ceremony at Hangar II.
“It is truly a privilege to be taking command of Squadron One,” Colonel Spinelli said. “I have had the honor to be part of the United States Air Force for the past 17 years and I’ve had the privilege of spending seven of those years as a part of NATO. I have met, worked with and, most importantly, learned from many wonderful people in preparation for this day.”
Flying Squadron One was activated in July 1981 and has been a leading element of NATO operations ever since. From Operation Deny Flight, NATO’s enforcement of the no-fly zone over Bosnia-Herzegovina in 1993, to Operation Crescent Guard, NATO’s defence of Turkish airspace from Iraqi attack in 2003, Squadron One has answered the call and provided top-notch aircrews to make the mission happen. Even now, the Tigers of Squadron One are fully engaged with crew deploying to support ISAF as part of Operation Afghan Assist.
“The squadron’s record of sacrifice and hard-work is truly a credit to each individual nation of the E-3A Component and NATO as a whole,” Spenilli said. “I salute you for your outstanding performance over the years and for your dedication to the mission and NATO. I look forward to serving with you and becoming a member of your team as we continue the tradition of excellence that you have established.”
| Date Taken: | 07.04.2014 |
| Date Posted: | 07.25.2014 08:04 |
| Story ID: | 137247 |
| Location: | GEILENKIRCHEN, NW, DE |
| Web Views: | 652 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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