I know that loss of confidence is a common response from the Air Force, whenever someone is removed from a command position, and I think its important to understand why we take this approach. All Rights Reserved. [16][17] As a result of the drawdown of F-16s, the 22nd and 23rd Fighter Squadrons were inactivated on 13 August 2010 and formed a single "new" squadron, the 480th Fighter Squadron. His retirement leaves the operations group without a permanent commander until June, when his official replacement will assume command. Kennedy said she is satisfied with how the investigation proceeded. You can and should read that entire special feature linked here. Based in Stuttgart, Germany, he previously worked for newspapers in New Jersey, North Carolina and Maryland. Myers said retiring was Retkas choice, and that he was not ordered or pressured to retire early. It was assigned to Air Defense Command and equipped with North American F-86 Sabre aircraft. Air Forces are supposed to break shit and kill people. By the time Retka returned to Spangdahlem as a group commander, he was viewed by some as a bully who had a tendency to mock, disparage or undermine his subordinates. Further, he supervises the support of the 31,000 local military retirees and 29 geographically separated units across nine states.". On Tuesday, Dec. 30, Bilodeau was relieved of command and Hubert, the wing vice commander, was again named interim commander. I checked the new tab and didn't see anything. [20][21] They flew their first sortie on 21 March 2011, tasked with SEAD. OSI investigators also uncovered reports of more questionable activity by Retka over the years, particularly while he was deployed to Kunsan around 2004. The wing includes about 5,000 military and civilian personnel, spread across nine sites in five countries. The wing also supports contingencies and operations other than war. The 52nd FWs main priorities are deterrence, agile combat employment, and integrated base defense. (SrA Marcus Morris/Air Force). Bilodeau was not relieved for alleged misconduct or wrongdoing, the release said. During his speech, Reed commended Spangdahlems Sabers for their leadership as Air Force innovators. I would like to see a legit answer why this guy was shitcanned rather than this run-on full o' buzzwords. Maj. Gen. Randall Reed, the 3rd Air Force commander, lauded Epperson for his work, especially his efforts setting up a site to make sure airmen were free of the coronavirus before deploying to Africa and the U.S. Central Command area of operation. Sign up to receive a daily email of today's top military news stories from Stars and Stripes and top news outlets Col. Peter M. Bilodeau. For example, the 52nd has increased rotational missions in Poland as part of EUCOMs push to bolster the military presence in the region. She is a 2011. United States Air Force Europe (19621963), United States Air Force Europe (19761994), Last edited on 18 December 2022, at 14:14, United States Air Forces in Europe Air Forces Africa, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, 580th Air Resupply and Communications Group, 366th Fighter Bomber Wing (later 366th Tactical Fighter) Wing, "480th Fighter Squadron Embraces the Spirit of the Lafayette Escadrille", "480th Bombardment Squadron (Medium) July 1942 - May 1944", "480th Fighter-Bomber Squadron August 1957 - April 1959", "480th Tactical Fighter Squadron (France) April 1962 - February 1966", "480th Tactical Fighter Squadron, a Brief History", "480th activated as Spangdahlem's newest F-16 squadron", "480th Tactical Fighter Squadron (Southeast Asia) February 1966 - November 1971", "480th Tactical Fighter Squadron (Spangdahlem) November 1976 - April 1994", "U.S., Bulgarian air forces partner for training", "Precision and Purpose: Airpower in the Libyan Civil War", "480th Fighter Squadron deploys in support of Operation New Dawn", "Last F-16s out provide joint support for Iraq", "U.S. pilots plant SEAD with Turkish counterparts", "480th Fighter Squadron deploys to Afghanistan", "US Forces in Poland strengthen NATO partnerships during aviation rotation", "PRESS RELEASE: Air Force releases investigation results on F-16C crash", "Accident General Dynamics F-16CJ-50-CF 91-0366/SP, 11 Aug 2015", "480th FS deploys in support of Operation Inherent Resolve", "480th FS returns from Operation Inherent Resolve", "Power loss, bad weather caused Spangdahlem F-16 crash in Germany, Air Force says", "480th EFS improves interoperability, strategic partnerships at Blue Flag 2019", "U.S. European Command Force Posture Policy Press Conference: Secretary Esper's Opening Statement (as prepared)", "The U.S. Air Force will relocate the 480th Fighter Squadron from Spangdahlem Air Base to Aviano Air Base", "Plans to Draw Down in Germany on Hold as New Administration Considers Options", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=480th_Fighter_Squadron&oldid=1128123844, 19421944; 19511956; 19571959; 19621971; 19761994; 2010present, Activated on 30 April 1962 (not organized), 366th Tactical Fighter Wing, 10 October 1966, McDonnell Douglas F-4D Phantom II (19681971; 19761979), McDonnell Douglas F-4E Phantom II (19791987), McDonnell Douglas F-4G Wild Weasel V (19831991), This page was last edited on 18 December 2022, at 14:14. Browse or search for Major Units at Spangdahlem AB. Epperson praised the wing, who look out for each other in the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. I really hope that the Air Force can grow and move forward in a more positive environment. USAFE said Retka chose to retire several months earlier than expected. SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- The 52nd Fighter Wing held a change of command ceremony at Hangar 1 here July 15. But on July 3, exactly two months after the incident at the dinner, Kennedy took command of the 480th Fighter Squadron. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts Log InSign Up User account menu 28 Were looking forward to another amazing season with this team. Exactly the way they like it. . [I]f you want to understand my leadership style, it would be if its based on increasing combat capability, then youre doing the right thing and keep doing it. If not, lets talk and lets work on trying to get better while taking care of our airmen and families, he added. Melody W. Howley), U.S. Air Force Col. Leslie Hauck, 52nd Fighter Wing incoming commander, renders his first salute during the 52nd FW Change of Command ceremony July 15, 2021, on Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany. The commander of the 52nd Fighter Wing at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, was relieved of command Tuesday over a loss of faith and confidence in his leadership. [5], The unit was reactivated as the 480th Fighter-Bomber Squadron (480th FBS) on 25 September 1957 at England Air Force Base, Louisiana, as part of the 366th Fighter-Bomber Wing. June 2012 June 2014, Commander, 59th Test and Evaluation Squadron, Nellis AFB, Nev. 13. [39][40] The plans to move 480th FS have been put on hold as the new Biden administration looks to review the previous administrations plans to move the squadron to Italy.[41]. USAFE would not say which administrative action was taken against Retka, citing the Privacy Act. Making mistakes is a part of life. The 480th TFS were the first squadron to shoot down a Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21 during the Vietnam War. Melody W. Howley), U.S. Air Force Col. David Epperson, 52nd Fighter Wing outgoing commander, makes his final remarks during the 52nd FW Change of Command ceremony July 15, 2021, on Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany. Retka said he was also carrying a tall glass of beer in front of him, and told someone else that Kennedy may have felt the glass against her. Army colonel who oversaw ground zero for US militarys COVID-19 cases is retiring, Gallantry: Biden presents Medal of Honor to retired Army Col. Paris Davis for his heroics in Vietnam, US to send bridge-launching vehicles for tank deployments to Ukraine in new $400M aid package, Japan complains to US over Utah senators remarks on imprisoned Navy officer, Military, VA provide troops, vets more gun safety options to help reduce suicides, Pentagon tells service members to stop displaying giant US flags at major events, K-Town Now features the latest news from the Kaiserslautern Military Community. Press J to jump to the feed. The wing maintains and employs F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter aircraft in support of NATO and national defense directives. Gallantry: Biden presents Medal of Honor to retired Army Col. Paris Davis for his heroics in Vietnam, US to send bridge-launching vehicles for tank deployments to Ukraine in new $400M aid package, Japan complains to US over Utah senators remarks on imprisoned Navy officer, Pentagon tells service members to stop displaying giant US flags at major events, Israels window to strike Iran narrows as Putin enters equation, Air Force command climate investigation ends with Okinawa commanders removal, Military, VA provide troops, vets more gun safety options to help reduce suicides, K-Town Now features the latest news from the Kaiserslautern Military Community. [27], In April 2013, the 480th EFS deployed to Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan, for six months to support Operation Enduring Freedom. Waters, last seasons Viper Demo pilot has resumed command, so the team is in great hands, and the show will go on. [10], The 480th TFS converted to the F-4D by May 1968. Melody W. Howley). (A1C Branden Rae/Air Force). [13], In 1993, the Warhawks became the USAF's first squadron to be equipped with the Block 50 F-16s, and was again tasked with the Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD). [30], On 30 May 2014, the 480th FS deployed in support of 52nd OG Det 1 at ask for two weeks. The mission of the 52nd Fighter Wing is to deliver airpower options to deter and combat aggression. Welcome to Spangdahlem Air Base's official Facebook page. At least 165 people were reported dead as of Monday evening, according to the German publication Deutsche Welle. But some access roads were cut off by the water and landslides, base and local officials said. Kotnik from her position as the commander of the Viper Demo team yesterday, because I lost confidence in her ability to lead the team. Air Force officials in Europe said at the time that. Kotnik, but shes surrounded by wingmen that will help her every step of the way. We will develop, care and continue to be innovative as Airmen.. Hauck assumed command of an F-16 wing dubbed Saber Nation, which is headquartered in rural Spangdahlem. Col. Lars R. Hubert, 52nd Fighter Wing vice commander, has been appointed as interim wing commander until a replacement is named. [12], On 19 September 1985, the history of the 480th Bombardment Squadron and 480th Air Resupply Squadron was consolidated with the existing 480th Tactical Fighter Squadron which had first formed in 1957. Home/how to remove temporary spray adhesive from fabric/ spangdahlem commander fired. July 2001 - January 2003, F-16 Flight Examiner, Flight Commander, 22d FS Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany 6. The squadron was first activated by III Bomber Command as the 480th Bombardment Squadron (Medium) on 15 July 1942 flying the B-26 Marauder, assigned to the 336th Bombardment Group. Several witnesses told OSI the event was somewhat crowded, but relatively easy to navigate without bumping into other people. I do find it weird that he has been pulled from the global, and his official bio was pulled before that press release went out. Stars and Stripes reporter Marcus Kloeckner contributed to this report. KAISERSLAUTERN, Germany Col. David Epperson spent the night before he relinquished command of the 52nd Fighter Wing at Spangdahlem Air Base in neighboring villages, filling sandbags to help stem widespread flooding after days of heavy rainfall. He is headed to the Pentagon to lead the Checkmate Division at Air Force headquarters. SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany - Two B-1B Lancers from Dyess Air Force Base's 9th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron, currently operating from Royal Air Force Fairford, England, conducted hot-pit refueling using the innovative Versatile Integrated Partner Equipment Refueling (VIPER) kit, at Spangdahlem AB Oct. 11. Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. [24][25], In March 2012, the 480th deployed to Konya Air Base to take part in Exercise Anatolian Eagle 2012 with the Turkish Air Force, practising SEAD. Witnesses said Retkas chokehold was a full asphyxiation that caused the drunk pilot to lose consciousness and soil himself. Her husband told investigators that Retka approached the group directly behind his wife and stood crowded subway close to her, which he described as awkward. [8] The continued drawdown of United States forces from Vietnam resulted in the inactivation of 37th TFW at Ph Ct AB on 31 March 1970. But his family has lived in the region for 400 years and he refuses to be driven away even. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kyle Cope), U.S. Air Force Col. Timothy Trimmell, 52nd Maintenance Group commander, left, Lt. Col. Brian Scozzaro, incoming 52nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron commander, middle, and Lt. Col. John Szczepanski, outgoing 52nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron commander, right, sing the Air Force song at the conclusion of the 52nd AMXS Change of Command Ceremony at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, July 26, 2019. This new way of operating is still developing, but with the innovation and flexibility in your blood, Saber Nation leads the way in this new way of fighting, and the rest of us are following you.. Colonel Derek "Maestro" OMalley is the commander for the 20th Fighter Wing. In late September, Jordana Kennedy said in a memo to reviewing authorities that Retka should not be retained on active duty, and should be removed from command and leave the service. John covers U.S. military activities across Europe and Africa. He previously covered leadership and personnel issues at Air Force Times, and the Pentagon, special operations and air warfare at Military.com. Bilodeau assumed command in July 2014. In a written statement to OSI, Retka denied he inappropriately touched Kennedy and that any contact was incidental and not done with the intent to abuse, humiliate or degrade her or for his own gratification. [5] Tactical Air Command (1957-1959) [ edit] New commander brings passion to Spangdahlem. The USAFE press release says it wasn't for misconduct. [22] On 2 May 2011, the 480th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron deployed to Iraq as part of Operation New Dawn. Spangdahlem is home of the 52nd Fighter Wing, which maintains, deploys and employs Lockheed Martin Block 50 F-16CM/DM. McFall received his commission through the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1993. Thats what teamwork is, thats what Saber Nation is, Epperson said during the ceremony. The colonel asked the group, Did somebody just touch my butt? and Kennedy replied, Yeah, mine too, the report said. In Colonel O'Malley's case, this little sojourn into blue humor movie making didn't seem to hold him back much. Veterans Affairs drops mask requirement for all agency medical offices, Officials OK some hand and neck tattoos for airmen, Guardians, Perennial pilot shortage puts Air Force in precarious position, Healthy eating on a budget for busy military spouses, The impossible choice facing many of Americas military families, Tax scams How to report them Money Minute, Capitol Hill weighs action on two controversial topics: medical marijuana and abortion, Lockheed wins hypersonics contract | Defense Dollars, Go inside a secret nuclear fallout bunker sealed for decades, Another Air Force fleet grounded over fears plane tails may fall off, Pentagon orders engine vibration fix for entire F-35 fleet worldwide, Minot firings due to failed nuclear safety inspection, Air Force advisers study use of satellites for tracking moving targets. Retka declined to comment, according to USAFE. Spangdahlems previous wing commander, Col. Peter M. Bilodeau, was relieved of duties in late December, less than six months on the job. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Melody W. Howley) Spangdahlem Fire Department light up Fire Prevention Week Published Oct. 8, 2020 By Senior Airman Melody W. Howley I felt his pelvis, his privates, his everything into my backside, she told Air Force Times. Here you'll find command name, phone numbers & websites. - 5 Aircraft Maintenance Squadron Operations Officer at Minot AFB, - 5 Maintenance Squadron Commander at Minot AFB, - 379 Expeditionary Maintenance Squadron Commander at Al Udeid AB. The wing also supports the Supreme Allied Commander by providing credible deterrence, delivering combat capabilities, executing joint reception, staging, onward movement, and integration, facilitating inter-theater airlift, and building partnership capacity. [28][29] The pilots who did not deploy were effected by the 2013 United States budget sequestration which led to a loss of multiple flying currencies, these weren't regained until August 2013 when flying resumed. Just my opinion but good leadership includes being open and honest in decision making. 2 weeks (roughly) later the squadron had to go to this failed leaders promotion to Lt. Col. Smdh. It's worth noting that the female pilot in the videois not Zoe Kotnik. The past year has been a busy one for the wing, which has been a part of U.S. European Commands efforts to reassure allies in eastern Europe in the wake of Russian aggression in Ukraine. The FCLC is a course to help Company Grade Officers, Senior Non-Commissioned Officers, and civilians get a broader perspective on the mission of the base and what . October 1996 May 1997, Executive Officer, 71st Operations Group, Vance AFB, Okla. 2. Col. Anthony Retka, former commander of the 52nd Operations Group at Spangdahlem Air Base in Germany, passes the guidon to incoming 480th Fighter Squadron Lt. Col. Patrick Kennedy during a change of command ceremony on July 3, 2019. The wing supports the Supreme Allied Commander Europe with mission-ready personnel and systems providing expeditionary air power. Col. Anthony Retka, who was commander of the 52nd Operations Group at Spangdahlem Air Base in Germany, was disciplined with an administrative action after an investigation into allegations that. He is headed to. [32] The pilot ejected safely. ", What the fuck is motivational mission accomplishment and.

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