Photo By Capt. Traci Howells | Lt. Col. Al Wirth accepts the 157th Air Intelligence Squadron guidon from Col. Chip...... read more read more
JEFFERSON BARRACKS AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Mo. — The 157th Air Operations Squadron welcomed its new commander May 6, as Lt. Col. Al Wirth officially assumed command of the unit he has led since December as its acting commander.
Col. Chip Atterbury, 157th Air Operations Group commander and previous 157th AIS commander, presided over the ceremony.
“This is a significant milestone in any officer’s career; a milestone that few ever see,” Atterbury said. “But for those who attain command, it’s a milestone and an experience they will remember and cherish not just for the rest of their careers, but for the rest of their lives.”
Atterbury spoke of the many experiences and qualifications that Wirth brings to the role of squadron commander after being an intelligence officer with the unit for more than 20 years. He has served in multiple capacities, including as an analyst, targeteer, collection manager and senior intelligence duty officer. Most recently, he served as the squadron’s director of operations.
“I have seen your personal commitment to the mission and the people,” he said. “I have seen your grit and determination. I have felt your empathy and your emotional connection to the squadron. I know you are ready.”
In his remarks, Wirth thanked his leadership and his family. He recalled how his mother and father instilled in him at an early age to always do the right thing; help people out; and do the best job one can, in whatever that may be.
“Those words have stuck with me through the years and made service in the Air Force pretty easy, because we call those by different names; integrity, service before self and excellence in all we do.”
To conclude the ceremony, Wirth addressed the men and women of his squadron.
“I am proud and humbled to take this post,” he said. “I hope you know I will do everything in my power to serve you, serve with you, and take the best intelligence unit in the Air Force and make it even better.”
| Date Taken: | 05.06.2018 |
| Date Posted: | 05.06.2018 16:03 |
| Story ID: | 275907 |
| Location: | JEFFERSON BARRACKS, MO, US |
| Web Views: | 222 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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