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    Carney takes command of the Mighty 97th

    Carney takes command of the Mighty 97th

    Photo By Staff Sgt. Cody Dowell | Members of the 97th Air Mobility Wing salute for the arrival of the official party and...... read more read more

    ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, OK, UNITED STATES

    06.19.2017

    Story by Airman 1st Class Cody Dowell 

    97th Air Mobility Wing

    U.S. Air Force Col. Eric Carney assumed command of the 97th Air Mobility Wing, June 16, 2017.

    U.S. Air Force Major General Patrick Doherty, 19th Air Force commander, presided over the 97th AMW Change of Command ceremony where, U.S. Air Force Col. Todd Hohn relinquished command to Carney.

    “We’re leaving the 97th AMW in incredible leadership hands,” said Doherty. “I know what type of leader he is I know what type of leadership he’s going to provide to you. He’s a servant leader that cares about his people.”

    Carney previously served as a Chief of Staff of the Air Force Fellow working interagency issues in the National Capital Region, Washington, D.C. Carney has also served as an Air Force planner, Headquarters Air Force, Pentagon, VA. He holds many distinguished awards for his academics and his service in the Air Force.

    “To the men and women of the mighty 97th, today’s about recognizing you and the assurance you provide to our nation. Your polite professionalism, selfless service and sacrifice is something I’ve always respected," said Carney. "Just listening to the previous speakers, I am reminded how exceptional this wing is. In my mind there are a handful of units that have a disproportional effect on our national security and I believe that the 97th AMW is one of them.”
    Hohn expressed the importance and impact Altus AFB has had on his life and his family during his command here, as well as applauding the excellence of the Airmen he’s come in contact with.

    "Kathy and I have some of our greatest memories of our Air Force time those two years here," said Hohn. “Thank you for what you have done for Kathy and I to make this the most memorable and rewarding assignment of my career.”

    During his time at the 97th AMW, Altus AFB achieved 54 Air Education and Training Command awards and produced over 200 personnel for active, guard, reserve and international students.

    Doherty expressed the importance the wing carries in maintaining the Air Forces status as the number one Air Force in the world.

    "When other leaders from other countries try to figure out why the United States Air Force is the number one Air Force in the world for nearly 75 years, they have a hard time trying to figure it out,” said Doherty. “I will tell you that this wing, these airframes and this town are one of the primary reasons why our Air Force is, has and will be the number one Air Force for some time.”

    During his charge, Carney thanked Altus AFB for the chance to be a part of the wing and expressed the pride he has to lead it.

    “Today our military is globally committed to fighting adversaries abroad and trying to keep us safer at home,” said Carney “The men and women of the 97th AMW are who make that possible; every C-17 and KC-135 crewmember that comes through this base. Soon it will also be the center for the KC-46 and will continue that stream of excellence and stream of service for the new platform. I am proud to become one of you today and I’m honored to be your new commander.”

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    NEWS INFO

    Date Taken: 06.19.2017
    Date Posted: 06.19.2017 16:09
    Story ID: 238445
    Location: ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, OK, US

    Web Views: 150
    Downloads: 0

    PUBLIC DOMAIN