Photo By Tech. Sgt. Zoe Wockenfuss | Pennsylvania Air National Guardsman Colonel Ryan D. Strong, center, takes command of...... read more read more
The 171st Air Refueling Wing participated in a Change of Command ceremony where Colonel Ryan D. Strong took command of the 171st October 26, 2025, near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Maj. Gen. Terrence L. Koudelka, Jr., the Deputy Adjutant General-Air and Commander, Pennsylvania Air National Guard, officially passed the 171st guidon to Strong, making him Wing Commander. The guidon is a ceremonial flag that represents the unit and its squadrons.
“Colonel Strong brings great leadership and a clear commitment to our Airmen and mission,” said Koudelka. “We look forward to seeing the 171st continue to excel under his command.”
Colonel Strong attended Baker University and graduated in 1998 with a B.S. in Accounting. He joined the 190th ARW in September 1999. Subsequently, he commissioned in September 2001 from the Academy of Military Science, Mcghee-Tyson ANG Base, Knoxville, Tennessee, and graduated from Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training, Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas, in April 2003. Colonel Strong has logged over 5,300 total hours as an instructor and evaluator pilot. He has participated in Operations Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, Inherent Resolve, Freedom Sentinel, and Restore Hope.
“It’s an honor to join the 171st and lead a team with such a proud legacy of excellence,” said Strong. “I look forward to continuing our mission with integrity, teamwork, and dedication.”
Preceding Strong was Col. Raymond L. Hyland Jr., who served as commander since 2021 and has over 25 years of service at the 171st.
| Date Taken: | 10.26.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 10.26.2025 14:11 |
| Story ID: | 550420 |
| Location: | PENNSYLVANIA, US |
| Web Views: | 30 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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