New leader assumes command of Dover AFB’s reserve wing

Photo By Tech. Sgt. Mercedes Crossland | Reservists from the 512th Airlift Wing stand in formation Aug. 1, 2015, during the wing's change of command ceremony at Dover Air Force Base, Del. Col. D. Scott Durham assumed command of the 512th AW, where he previously was the Operations Group commander two years ago.  

DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, DE, UNITED STATES

08.01.2015

Story by Master Sgt. Veronica Aceveda 

512th Airlift Wing

DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. - Col. D. Scott Durham assumed command of the 512th Airlift Wing in a ceremony today inside an aircraft hangar here.

The colonel’s previous assignment was at the Pentagon, where he served as the deputy director for mobilization in the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs.

Durham replaces Col. Raymond A. Kozak, who bids farewell to the Liberty Wing to take a position as the commander of the 349th Air Mobility Wing, Travis Air Force Base, California.

Maj. Gen. John C. Flournoy Jr., 4th Air Force commander, March Air Reserve Base, California, was the officiating officer for the change of command.

“You’re a combat veteran with operations and Pentagon experience,” said Flournoy when addressing the audience about Durham’s career. “These elements make him the perfect choice to lead the 512th (AW). He’s an officer, an aviator and a family man.”

Durham’s wife and three children had remained in the Dover area while he served abroad. During his speech, the former 512th Operations Group commander expressed gratitude for being able to rejoin the 512th (AW).

“It’s been a quick two years since I left for the Pentagon,” he said. “It was an amazing journey, but it’s great to be home.”

Hundreds of Dover dignitaries and Airmen aligned in formation joined Durham’s family in witnessing him receive the wing’s guidon. The military tradition of passing the organizational flag symbolizes the passing of responsibility and authority to the new commander, a gesture which historically aided troops in knowing who to dedicate their loyalty and trust.

“We’ve come a long way since the 18th century, when troops may not have known who their commander is,” said Durham. “I guarantee you, I’ll be out there. You’ll know who I am.”

Durham is a command pilot with more than 4,900 flight hours. He now has charge of a 1,700-person organization, which supports Air Mobility Command’s worldwide airlift mission, operating C-5 and C-17 aircraft.

• Date Taken: 08.01.2015
• Date Posted: 08.01.2015 15:11
• Story ID: 171827
• Location: DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, DE, US