Photo By Senior Airman Christa Ross | U.S. Air Force Col. Sheldon B. Wilson, center, outgoing commander, 165th Airlift Wing,...... read more read more
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SAVANNAH, Ga.— After 37 months of leading the 165th Airlift Wing through a period of significant modernization and growth, U.S. Air Force Col. Sheldon B. Wilson relinquished command during a change of command ceremony at Savannah Air National Guard Base, Aug. 1.
U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Konata A. Crumbly, commander of the Georgia Air National Guard, presided over the ceremony, formally transferring command in accordance with military tradition. Wilson assumed command of the 165th Airlift Wing in June 2023, leading more than 1,400 Airmen assigned to the wing and its geographically separated units.
"Your tenure as wing commander has been nothing short of historic," Crumbly said. During his tenure, Wilson guided the wing through its transition to the C-130J Super Hercules, enhancing the unit’s airlift capabilities and positioning the wing for future missions. The wing welcomed its first J-model aircraft in January 2024 and has since received six of its eight assigned aircraft. Crumbly also recognized Wilson's efforts to improve the installation's long-term readiness through infrastructure investments.
"Modernizing the fleet was only part of your mission," Crumbly said. "You also modernized the infrastructure, securing $38 million in military construction projects right here on base."
Beyond aircraft modernization, Wilson focused on strengthening relationships between the wing and the communities it serves. Under his leadership, the wing established the Adopt-a-High School program, expanded partnerships with technical colleges across Georgia and launched the Honorary Commanders Program to connect local leaders with the mission of the 165th Airlift Wing.
"You didn't just build the base, you built up the Savannah community," said Crumbly. “You are the epitome of a citizen Airman. Thank you for your timeless dedication, servant leadership and outstanding service to the state of Georgia.”
Wilson will continue his military career at the Georgia Air National Guard Joint Force Headquarters in Marietta, Georgia, where he will serve as the director of strategic planning.
| Date Taken: | 08.02.2026 |
| Date Posted: | 08.13.2026 09:33 |
| Story ID: | 571346 |
| Location: | SAVANNAH, GEORGIA, US |
| Web Views: | 18 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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