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.

455th Expeditionary Mission Support Group receives new commander

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Craig Seals
  • 455th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan --  Col. Barry Mines took charge of the 455th Expeditionary Mission Support Group during a change-of-command ceremony in the A-10 fuel cell hangar at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan July 18.

Brig. Gen. Bill Hyatt, 455th Air Expeditionary Wing commander, presided over the ceremony in which Col. Mines took the reins of the 455th EMSG from Col. Debbie Henson.

General Hyatt praised Col. Henson for her group's ability to "come together to support each other."

"She's a fantastic lady, great officer and wonderful leader," said the general. "She has enabled her squadron commanders to get things done."

After the general's comments, Col. Henson had a few words of appreciation. During her remarks, the colonel reflected on her Airmen and support staff here.

"One of my biggest priorities was to leave BAF a better place than we found it," Col. Henson said. "What we are doing here matters and what we are doing here is important."

After the colonel's speech, it was time for the guidon to be ceremoniously passed from Col. Henson to Gen. Hyatt signifying the relinquishment of command, then from Gen. Hyatt to Col. Mines signifying the acceptance of the new command.

Following the passing of the guidon and the announcement of the new 455th EMSG commander, Col. Mines had a few words regarding his new command.

"It's truly an honor to assume command of the expeditionary mission support group," said Col. Mines. "Be good wingmen, take care of each other and thank you all for your service to a great nation."

The change of command, a time honored tradition, dates back to the 18th century and Frederick the Great of Prussia. The ceremony affords the fighting force the opportunity to witness their new leader assume the position of authority.