HORSHAM AIR GUARD STATION, Pa. -- Maj. Thomas Love assumed command of the 112th Cyberspace Operations Squadron (COS) during a ceremony Feb. 10 here.
Love holds a Master of Science degree in cyber leadership and previously worked as the National Guard Bureau cyber exercise & training branch chief.
Airman 1st Class Andrew Wagner, 112th COS, is confident that Love will excel as their commander.
“It’s unique because he took over a unit that’s not even completely formed yet,” Wagner said. “That takes patience and vision; and, he has both in spades.”
Love unofficially assumed the role as commander of 112th COS in August and admits it has not been an easy job, but well worth it.
“It’s the toughest job I’ve ever had,” he said, “But it has been the most rewarding.”
Col. John O’Brien, 111th Attack Wing Operations Group commander, recalls when he was asked to briefly serve as 112th COS commander. He thought it wouldn’t be much different than being a fighter pilot commander, but he realized it was not that simple.
“I had to go back with my tail between my legs,” he said.
Understanding that the job requires someone with a certain expertise, O’Brien and Col. Claudia Malone, Mission Support Group commander, screened applicants for the position. Love stood out among the candidates. And in just six months he helped make the unit more efficient.
“He brought order to chaos,” said O’Brien.
Numbers increased in a unit that was undermanned and troops completed their training within the projected times.
Love’s leadership in is line with the message of the Col. Bill Griffin, 111th Attack Wing commander: Total resilience and complete readiness aids in ensuring that the 111th ATKW here is the most effective Wing in the Air National Guard.