ALI AL SALEM AIR BASE, Kuwait -- The 386th Expeditionary Mission Support Group welcomed a new commander during a change of command ceremony here, June 28.
U.S. Air Force Col. Henry Triplett, 386th Air Expeditionary Wing commander, officiated the ceremony and led the symbolic change of leadership by the passing of the guidon from Col. Nicole Fuller, 386th EMSG outgoing commander, to Col. John Gustafson, 386 EMSG incoming commander.
“To the members of the 386th EMSG, it is my great privilege to have the opportunity to command this outstanding team of diverse support professionals,” said Gustafson. “I understand and greatly appreciate your ceaseless efforts to help ready, generate and sustain the combat power this wing and our nation rely on. Your mission focus inspires me every day to serve you, to listen to you and to work with you on how we can make our support better. Together we will continue to build on your efforts over the last year and advance the priorities to forge resolute partnerships, deliver exceptional mission support that enables decisive operations to win the fight today and deter our enemies by posturing to prevail tomorrow.”
Fuller thanked and praised the 386th EMSG and wing leadership for their efforts, dedication and teamwork over the last year.
“Thanks for being great teammates” said Fuller. “I couldn’t have asked for a better group of young leaders that brought highly diverse and innovative ideas to the expeditionary problem set every day. I have been absolutely humbled to be on your team for the last year and I’m so proud of what we have accomplished here.”
Triplett shared a few words during the ceremony and welcomed Gustafson to the 386th.
“Everything Fuller impacted, whether it was facility programs or Airmen, are all better because she made a difference,” said Triplett. “Thank you for leaving, not just your group, but the entire wing better than you found it. As we stand down operations in Afghanistan however, Gustafson is the perfect fit to take over command and ensure the area of responsibility logistics enterprise continues to function perfectly. We found another great leader for the Marauders and the 386th EMSG.”