Photo By 2nd Lt. De-Juan Haley | Lt. Col. David Lester addresses the crowd after assuming command of the 130th Force...... read more read more
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Lt. Col. Andrew J. Farmer relinquished command of the 130th Force Support Squadron to Lt. Col. David P. Lester March 4, 2017 during a formal change of command ceremony held at McLaughlin Air National Guard Base, Charleston, West Virginia.
Col. Michael O. Cadle, 130th Mission Support Group commander, presided over the ceremony with distinguished guests United States Army Maj. Gen. James A. Hoyer, the Adjutant General of the West Virginia National Guard; U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Harrison B. Gilliam, director of the joint staff; U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Charles R. Viet, assistant Adjutant General for homeland defense and installations; and U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. James L. Allen, senior enlisted advisor for the WVNG, in attendance.
Cadle, who oversees the Force Support Squadron in his role as MSG commander, offered words of praise for both Farmer in his outgoing role as well as incoming commander, Lester.
“I want you all to understand the complexities of this job and the mission that Dave and these folks are now challenged with,” Cadle said. “Not only do they have to be ready all the time, but FSS is one of the few units across the base that touches all the other units. Not only do people’s careers start here, but they end here, and they're touched everyday in between.”
Lester began his career in the Air Force in July of 1986 when he enlisted into public affairs. He went on to earn his degree in chemistry from West Virginia State University and received his commission in 1996 as public affairs officer. Lester joined the 130th AW in 1989 and served in numerous roles at both the wing and Joint Force Headquarters during that time. Prior to assuming command, Lester served as the Inspector General of complaints and resolutions for the 130th AW headquarters.
“Thank you Lt. Col. Farmer for leaving me a organization that has accomplished some great things and for laying the foundation for more great successes in the future,” Lester said in his remarks.
The incoming commander highlighted the pivotal role his father played in his Air Force career and described wishing he could be in attendance with him during this special time. He also acknowledged those who had helped him achieve this role, including those serving in FSS.
“To the men and women of the Force Support Squadron, thank you for the work you do everyday in ensuring we support the mission of the 130th Airlift Wing,” Lester noted. “You have a tough job and I’ve seen how you tackle it with professionalism and enthusiasm. I look forward to being your commander.”
| Date Taken: | 03.04.2017 |
| Date Posted: | 03.05.2017 12:41 |
| Story ID: | 225708 |
| Location: | WEST VIRGINIA, US |
| Web Views: | 549 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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