An official website of the United States government
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

The 386th AEW bids farewell to a great leader, hails new commander

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Rachelle Elsea
  • 386th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
SOUTHWEST ASIA --  Several local leaders, base leaders and Airmen, witnessed as Col. Michael Zick assumed command of the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing during a change-of-command ceremony here June 30, replacing Col. Patrick Mordente.

The Air Forces Central Commander, Lt. Gen. Mike Hostage, presided over the ceremony and spoke a few short words about Colonel Mordente.

"Your leadership of more than 6,000 Airmen over the past year has provided the critical vision necessary to get those engaged in Operations Iraqi Freedom, New Dawn and Enduring Freedom what they needed to succeed," said General hostage. "Under your command, the 386th has delivered a broad spectrum of operations- airlift, electronic attack, employment of our JET Airmen, theater wide logistics support, and theater combat aeromedical staging - needed to accomplish our mission. This wing stands as the key gateway into Iraq on the ground and in the air and your leadership has enabled this wing to bring these capabilities to bear when and where needed."

You have also demonstrated a keen awareness of how the United States Air Force builds partnerships to enable its presence abroad, he added. You have shepherded millions of dollars worth of infrastructure construction to support coalition operations.

"Your 'combat truckers' drove into harm's way to provide an unprecedented level of combat service support to United States forces," said General hostage. "You partnered with our local allies to enhance airfield operations and cooperative force protection. Through it all, you flew more than 12,000 combat sorties throughout the region to bring much needed supplies to the men and women engaged with enemy on the ground."

General hostage then presented the Bronze Star to the departing commander, for his outstanding accomplishments during his one-year tenure.

Directly following, Col. Mordente took the time to say a few words to his audience before he officially relinquished command.

"Great moments come from great opportunity; this has truly been a momentous year," said Colonel Mordente. "Therefore, I would like to thank those who made this opportunity to lead the men and women of the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing and who were the key to our success."

He also added a statement of pride to his troops.

"I am most proud of the Air Force Airmen that I have had the privilege to serve with," said Colonel Mordente. "What the leadership team accomplished during this year was made possible through the effort and dedication of our Airmen. They gave their full measure everyday... 24 hours a day ... seven days a week ... 365 days a year... in sandstorms and heat that sometimes topped 130 degrees."

After acknowledging multiple contributions of his Airmen, Colonel Mordente relinquished command. With the simple words, "Sir, I assume command," and the receiving of the guidon, Colonel Zick took command of the wing

Colonel Zick began his tenure as the 386th AEW commander by thanking the outgoing commander and sharing his thoughts on deployment.

"It is truly an honor and pleasure to be your commander," said Colonel Zick. "During our time together, I promise we will continue the excellence set forth by Colonel Mordente and his leadership team this past year. Colonel Mordente, thanks for all the great work; you definitely made a positive and lasting impact on the base and its Airmen."

The new AEW commander also had words for his wing members.

"So, what can you expect from me," said Colonel Zick. "I'm a 'keep it simple' type of guy. You will see me concentrating our efforts around three main tenants: mission first, people always and have fun along the way."

All this we will do with the help of our sister services, our Allies and our host nation partners, he added. No matter the time, the place or the challenge, I know we will make it happen, just like they've done for years.