911 AW welcomes former squadron director of operations, new commander

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Jonathan Hehnly
  • 911th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
PITTSBURGH IAP ARS --  The 911th Airlift Wing reins of control changed hands during a change of command ceremony at the Pittsburgh International Airport Air Reserve Station, August 3, 2014.

Col. Craig C. Peters relinquished his command to former 911th Airlift Wing member, Col. Jeffrey A. Van Dootingh.

Presiding over the ceremony, Maj. Gen. Stayce D. Harris, 22nd Air Force commander, welcomed Col. Van Dootingh back to Pittsburgh and to the 911th AW.

Noting Col. Van Dootingh's most recent assignments, Maj. Gen. Harris stated, "After a successful tour at Keesler and as chief of the programs division (Headquarters Air Force Reserve Command, Robins Air Force Base, Georgia), you will bring a big picture perspective to the wing and continue to elevate the steel Airman to greater heights."

The new installation commander comes to the 911th Airlift Wing with more than 29 years of military experience, holding such diverse positions as Chief of Current Operations, flying squadron Director of Operations, numbered Air Force Director, Operations Group Commander, and Headquarters Division Chief.

Col. Van Dootingh recognizes that he is no stranger to the 911th Airlift Wing's mission, having served as the Director of Operations for the 758th Airlift Squadron here, from January 2010 to February 2012.

"It's great to be back to one of my homes," said the new 911th AW commander. "I am being handed a wing in great shape that is fully ready and mission capable."

Returning to the 911th Airlift Wing as Installation Commander, Col. Van Dootingh, is now the senior officer responsible for the wing organization, which includes authorized manning of 1,263 Air Force Reserve members and approximately 500 civilian employees (including more than 184 dual-status Air Reserve Technicians).

After assuming command, Col. Van Dootingh shared a quick story with 911th AW members about how George Washington approached leadership and worked alongside his troops at Valley Forge.

The new commander ended the story by saying, "I'm ready to roll-up my sleeves and get in the ditch next to each and every one of you, officer, enlisted and civilian, and I hope you will join me and get logs rolling."

Col. Craig C. Peters will take up his new position as Joint Staff, J-5, Global Policy and Partnerships Division, Partnership Coordination Pentagon.