332D AIR EXPEDITIONARY WING -- The 332d Expeditionary Maintenance and Expeditionary Operations Groups furled their unit flags during a combined inactivation ceremony at an undisclosed location in Southwest Asia, April 6, 2022.
“This is a historic day for the 332d Expeditionary Operations Group and Expeditionary Maintenance Group,” said Brig. Gen. Christopher Sage, 332d Air Expeditionary Wing commander. “Our groups, which tie us to the brave lineage of the Tuskegee Airmen, have led with courage and valor and have stood bravely on the edge of the battlespace to hold our enemies at bay.”
During the ceremony, Col. William Chudko relinquished command of the 332d EMXG. He addressed members of the 332d EMXG before casing the unit flag.
“Regardless of the organizational structure, I have no doubt that the maintenance professionals will continue to execute the mission,” said Chudko. “Without their herculean efforts in the heat of the summer and the cold of the desert winter, we would not have executed the CFACC [Combined Forces Air Component Commander]’s mission and formed the cornerstone of AFCENT fighter operations.”
The formalities followed with Col. Brian Stahl relinquishing command of the 332d EOG.
“As we roll up this flag, and begin a period of transition, it is important to highlight that with any change, whether it be our processes, personnel, or organizations, our ultimate purpose remains,” said Stahl. “In our new role, we will remain committed to advising and assisting with the ultimate intent of contributing to the continuation of unbridled and perpetual success.”
The ceremony concluded with each commander helping case their unit guidons, signifying the end of an era, but also welcoming a new beginning.
“As the cornerstone of Operation Inherent Resolve and leaders of Agile Combat Employment and Partner Nation Integration, we will leverage today’s event to continue to execute our mission with precision and lethality,” said Sage. “May we continue to lead with courage as we generate another day of peace – Red Tails, Spit Fire!”
These group inactivations signify a shift in the 332d AEW’s organizational structure to an A-Staff construct. A-Staff structure mirrors that of major commands and Air Force headquarters and more readily identifies staff equivalents at the joint operating level. It optimizes internal communication and creates more efficient interfacing with other services.
The transition supports swift decision making, maximizes responsiveness, streamlines administrative processes, and allows the 332d AEW to rapidly execute mission requirements.
“We are evolving to meet the long-term needs of our combat mission, and will continue to support all echelons throughout the Red Tail family,” said Sage. “This will empower squadrons to improve speed, readiness, and innovation.”