NEW ORLEANS - Brig. Gen. William T. Collins assumed command of the 4th Marine Aircraft Wing here, Aug. 5, during a ceremony at the Marine Corps Support Facility New Orleans.
Upon receiving the aircraft wing's guidon from Maj. Gen. Rex C. McMillian, as a symbol of exchanging command responsibility, Collins promised the he will continue to maintain a solid course.
"Your leadership has been a cornerstone for [4th MAW]; showing how this wing can be such a significant contribution to the active component," Collins said, "My assurance to you is that I will continue that path."
McMillian expressed gratitude for the opportunity to have commanded 4th MAW for the past two years and praised his team for doing an exemplary job creating the Corps' operational-reserve wing.
"We've set the course and speed for Reserve aviation for the next decade," he said.
McMillian thanked all the active duty, active Reserve, and Reserve Marines and their spouses for their support throughout the past two years. He is advancing to become the director for Reserve Affairs at Headquarters Marine Corps, Manpower and Reserve Affairs in Washington, D.C
Lt. Gen. Steven A. Hummer, the commander of Marine Forces Reserve and Marine Forces North articulated admiration for McMillian's leadership at the helm of 4th MAW. Hummer also enthusiastically welcomed Collins and his family to the Marines and family of MARFORRES.
As Collins takes command of the 4th MAW he is tasked to provide leadership and guidance to more than 7,000 Marines conducting air operations in support of the Fleet Marine Forces. The 4th MAW Marines are located at bases and stations throughout the United States offering the Corps capabilities ranging from anti-air warfare to offensive air support, assault support, electronic warfare, and aerial reconnaissance.
Four platoons of Marines and the Marine Forces Reserve band stood in formation to represent the thousands of aircraft wing personnel during the change of command ceremony. Collins affirmed to the crowd of guests and distinguished visitors that the Marines standing before them represented America's finest.
As the ceremony drew to a close, Collins, thanked the Marines for their service, "I look forward to the privilege and honor of being your commanding general," he said.
Date Taken: | 08.05.2012 |
Date Posted: | 08.07.2012 16:19 |
Story ID: | 92804 |
Location: | NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA, US |
Web Views: | 344 |
Downloads: | 1 |
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