Jun 23 2022

Heavy Airlift Wing welcomes new squadron commanders

Pápa, 23 June 2022 - The Strategic Airlift Capability (SAC) and its guests saw three squadron commanders give the baton to their successors during a unique ceremony in the SAC's Hangar Bay in Pápa, Hungary.

During the ceremony, where one of the SAC C-17s lent its usual place inside the Hangar to the attendees, incoming commanders, LtCol Brian Butler (USAF) of the Command and Control Squadron, LtCol Olav Andersen (RNoAF) of the Heavy Airlift Squadron, and LtCol Matthias Gustavsson (SwAF) of the Logistics Support Squadron assumed command from their predecessors, LtCol Benjamin Wood (USAF), LtCol Mikael Tormalm (SwAF), and LtCol John Roem (RNLAF), respectively.

We all had to battle a pandemic, we had to get accustomed to a new normal, and had to adjust our lifestyles. World events, like the explosion in Beirut, evacuating from Afghanistan, the war in Ukraine, and diplomatic fuel issues in Africa have challenged us, but time and time again proved the exceptionality of the program’s ability to react on short notice and complete missions no matter the difficult circumstances we have to face as a team.

– said Heavy Airlift Wing Commander Colonel Peder Söderström, highlighting the fact that all three outgoing commanders had to lead their units during unprecedented times.

Colonel Söderström ensured the three incoming commanders that they have his full confidence and support, and assured the entire SAC team that all three squadrons are left in capable hands in order to continue in the spirit of the Strategic Airlift Capability’s motto: 12 Nations, 1 Team.

Story by Strategic Airlift Capability (SAC)