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    Thunderbolts welcome new commander

    Thunderbolts welcome new commander

    Photo By Cpl. Terry Haynes | Col. Frank Latt addresses the crowd during a change of command ceremony aboard Marine...... read more read more

    BEAUFORT, SC, UNITED STATES

    05.24.2018

    Story by Lance Cpl. Terry Haynes 

    Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort

    Lt. Col. Allen E. Szczepek Jr. relinquished command of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 251 to Lt. Col. Roy J. Nicka during a change of
    command ceremony aboard Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, May 24.

    The commanding general of the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, Maj. Gen. Matthew Glavy, attended the ceremony along with the commanders of MCAS Beaufort and Marine Aircraft Group 31.

    “Lt. Col. Szczepek is a visionary leader who has constantly delivered every time,” said Col. Frank Latt, the commanding officer
    of MAG-31. “Under his tutelage, the squadron has thrived and exceeded
    expectations. I know wherever he goes he will bring that same spirit with him. As hard as it is to say goodbye to Lt. Col Szczepek, I can say that I am excited to see what Lt. Col. Nicka will bring to this squadron.”

    In November 2017, Nicka briefly served as the Marine Aviation Training Support Site Beaufort officer in charge before being assigned to the billet of the MAG-31 operations officer. Nicka has served with other squadrons aboard MCAS Beaufort such as VMFA-122 as well as VMFA-115.

    “I am proud and humbled to be a part of the great legacy of this squadron as we enter the next chapter,” said Nicka. “I am a firm believer that steel sharpens steel. I look forward to the future as we incorporate more weapons into our arsenal, continue to supportour commanders and maintain the mission readiness that keeps our beloved Corps alive.”

    After exchanging the squadron colors, the symbolic transfer of command, Szczepek was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal for his service as the commanding officer of VMFA-251.
    “When I arrived here I inherited the best Marines I could ask for and I’m glad I can say the same thing now,” said Szczepek. “I may be leaving the house today but I’m still family and I will always treat these Marines as such. Thank you for the memories and Semper Fidelis.”

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    NEWS INFO

    Date Taken: 05.24.2018
    Date Posted: 05.31.2018 13:30
    Story ID: 279041
    Location: BEAUFORT, SC, US

    Web Views: 344
    Downloads: 0

    PUBLIC DOMAIN