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Members of 379th AEW welcome new commander

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Eric Summers Jr.
  • 379th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
Southwest Asia --  Col. Giovanni K. Tuck assumed command of the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing in a change of command ceremony June 20 at an undisclosed location in Southwest Asia.

Lt. Gen. Mike Hostage III, U.S. Air Forces Central commander, presided at the ceremony installing a new leader for one of the world's largest and most diverse expeditionary air wings.

Noting the scope of the 379th's mission, General Hostage expressed confidence in the new commander, saying, "I know you understand the 379th Wing's important mission. You are the right man for the job; lead these Airmen well."

Colonel Tuck expressed his appreciation of his responsibilities as the new commander of the historic Grand Slam Wing.

"In our system, command is a sacred trust given to an individual by supervisors on behalf of the American public," Colonel Tuck said. "In its simplest terms, we have the awesome responsibility to accomplish the mission that we are given and have a solemn obligation to take extraordinary care of America's sons and daughters who are placed in our charge."

During the ceremony, the colonel addressed wing members in attendance.

"Today we recognize the Airmen in this historic wing. Because of your unselfish dedication, those at home can go about their daily life secure in the knowledge that they are safe, protected and most of all free," the colonel said. "I would like to recognize our families and loved ones whose sacrifice is immense and keep the home fires burning until our safe return."

Colonel Tuck also gave thanks to host nation officials in attendance for being gracious hosts and stated that he looks forward to strengthening the relationship with them.

Colonel Tuck previously served as the executive officer to the Vice Chief of Staff of the Air Force, where he was responsible for coordinating with Headquarters Air Force, the Secretary of the Air Force staff, the Joint Staff, the Department of Defense and other governmental agencies on the full spectrum of Air Force and joint service issues- supporting 680,000 Total Force Airmen serving in the United States and overseas. During his career, he has also deployed in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.

Colonel Tuck assumed command of the wing from Brig. Gen. Randy Kee. General Kee departs for his next assignment as the Deputy Director for Politico-Military Affairs, Strategic Plans and Policy Directorate, Joint Staff, the Pentagon in Washington, D.C.