Mission Support Group Holds Change of Command

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jonathan Hehnly
  • 911 AW/PA
PITTSBURGH IAP ARS --  The 911th Mission Support Group reins of control changed hands during a change of command ceremony July 11 in the 911th Fuel Systems Maintenance Hangar.

Lt. Col. Patrick S. Ryan took command from Col. James B. Hurley as special guest Maj. Gen. James T. Rubeor, 22nd Air Force commander, looked on.

Col. Gordon H. Elwell Jr., 911th Airlift Wing commander said, "I look forward to Pat coming aboard. He's going to bring a wealth of experience and a different skill set."

Presiding over the ceremony, Colonel Elwell, thanked Colonel Hurley for his hard work and achievements during his time as commander.

Colonel Ryan is a native of New Hampshire. He entered the United States Air Force in January 1993 and was commissioned after graduating from Detachment 475, Reserve Officer Training Corps at the University of New Hampshire.

He worked in Combat Camera Operations at various locations from his commission until 2001. From 2001 to 2008, Colonel Ryan maintained leadership positions at Westover Air Reserve Base, Mass. His most recent assignment was as director of communications and information for 22nd AF at Dobbins Air Force Base, Ga. There he was responsible for development, coordination, preparation, and execution of operational, contingency, exercise, training and mobility plans and orders for all 22nd AF communications assets encompassing 13 squadrons or flights and two geographically separated units.

The lieutenant colonel will now be responsible for the 911th MSG, which consists of nearly 600 Airmen and civilian personnel assigned to Security Forces, Communications, Logistics Readiness, Mission Support, Civil Engineering and Services.

"The welcome and support given to me, to my wonderful wife Lisa and son Christopher has been superb," said Colonel Ryan. "You have welcomed us into your family."
As Colonel Hurley gave his farewell speech he spoke about the familiar concept of family here at the 911th MSG and how wonderful it has been to be a part of it over the years.

"Like I did two years ago, you are inheriting a great organization run by incredibly dedicated and talented people," said Colonel Hurley. "They trained me to be the Mission Support Group commander."

In his closing remarks, Colonel Ryan thanked Colonel Hurley for presenting him with such a terrific unit.

"I am so deeply humbled to accept the challenge of leading the 911th MSG; humbled, yet confident because it is you who we honor with this ceremony," said the new commander to his troops. "Together we are going to make the future a very bright one indeed!"

Colonel Hurley will take the position as commander for the 916th MSG at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, N.C.