Photo By Patrick Young | Col. Steven H. Rathmell (left), 224th ADG commander, uncovers 224th SFS guidon during...... read more read more
The 224th Security Forces Squadron was officially activated and ushered in a new era in a ceremony held at the Eastern Air Defense Sector, Rome, New York, on Friday, Dec. 8.
The New York Air National Guard and 224th Air Defense Group welcomed the activation of the 224th Security Forces Squadron, marking a pivotal moment in its distinguished history. The event not only commemorated the squadron's establishment but also served as the platform to officially introduce its new commander.
Stepping into the role of commander was Lt. Col. Michael Kidd, a seasoned leader with a profound commitment to service and a wealth of experience in safeguarding our nation's interests.
"Lt. Col. Kidd brings significant leadership experience and a deep commitment to people and our mission, making him the right choice to lead the 224th Security Forces Squadron into its next chapter," said Col. Steven Rathmell, 224th Air Defense Group commander, highlighting the new leader's exceptional qualifications.
During the ceremony, Kidd, received the unit's guidon from Rathmell. This symbolic passing of the guidon signifies the official transfer of authority and responsibility to the new commander.
Speaking at the ceremony, Kidd expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and outlined his vision for the squadron's future. "We are in position, right now and from this point forward, to define our legacy—our legacy as the original Defenders comprising the 224th Security Forces Squadron. It will be a legacy in which you will be proud. A legacy continued from those who came before us…and built upon the tenets of respect, accountability, credibility, and professionalism. We will set the example in all that we do. Why? Because Defenders lead the way.”
The event concluded with a sense of optimism and anticipation for the squadron's continued success under the leadership of Kidd, reaffirming the Air National Guard's commitment to integrity, service, and excellence.
The 224th Air Defense Group is composed of the 224th Air Defense Squadron, 224th Support Squadron, and the 224th Security Forces Squadron, located in Rome, and Detachment 1 and Detachment 2 that serve in the Washington, D.C. area. The 224th ADG provides the forces to conduct the Eastern Air Defense Sector’s (EADS) mission. EADS is one of two North American Aerospace Defense (NORAD) air defense sectors in the Continental United States (CONUS) and reports directly to 1st Air Force and CONUS NORAD Region Headquarters, collocated at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida. EADS is responsible for the aerospace defense of the eastern United States and supports NORAD’s Integrated Tactical Warning and Attack Assessment and NORTHCOM’s homeland defense missions.
| Date Taken: | 12.08.2023 |
| Date Posted: | 12.15.2023 08:14 |
| Story ID: | 459985 |
| Location: | ROME, NEW YORK, US |
| Web Views: | 203 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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