WEBVTT 00:00.610 --> 00:02.230 - Good morning ladies and gentlemen, 00:02.230 --> 00:03.063 and welcome to the 00:03.063 --> 00:06.180 386th Air Expeditionary Wing change of command ceremony. 00:06.180 --> 00:07.690 I'm Tech Sergeant Amy Bravo, 00:07.690 --> 00:09.700 your narrator for today's ceremony. 00:09.700 --> 00:12.653 As a reminder, please silence all electronic devices. 00:14.100 --> 00:15.470 This is an indoor ceremony, 00:15.470 --> 00:17.900 therefore during the playing of all national anthems, 00:17.900 --> 00:20.040 uniformed personnel should stand at attention 00:20.040 --> 00:22.080 and our civilian guests are asked to place their right hand 00:22.080 --> 00:22.983 over their heart. 00:53.460 --> 00:54.293 Ladies and gentlemen, 00:54.293 --> 00:56.780 please stand for the arrival of the official party. 01:28.381 --> 01:31.548 (marching band music) 01:47.016 --> 01:48.516 - Pose to Collins. 01:51.739 --> 01:52.572 Halt! 01:54.072 --> 01:54.905 Huh! 01:57.839 --> 01:58.672 Huh! 02:31.228 --> 02:32.061 Huh! 02:34.871 --> 02:35.704 Halt! 02:37.825 --> 02:38.908 Present arms! 02:45.494 --> 02:48.661 (marching band music) 03:19.305 --> 03:24.305 ♪ Oh say can you see ♪ 03:25.282 --> 03:30.282 ♪ By the dawn's early light ♪ 03:31.426 --> 03:36.426 ♪ What so proudly we hailed ♪ 03:36.670 --> 03:41.670 ♪ At the twilight's last gleaming ♪ 03:42.635 --> 03:47.635 ♪ Whose broad stripes and bright stars ♪ 03:48.724 --> 03:53.724 ♪ Through the perilous fight ♪ 03:54.273 --> 03:59.273 ♪ O'er the ramparts we watched ♪ 03:59.813 --> 04:04.813 ♪ Were so gallantly streaming ♪ 04:05.618 --> 04:10.618 ♪ And the rocket's red glare ♪ 04:10.813 --> 04:15.258 ♪ The bombs bursting in air ♪ 04:15.258 --> 04:19.756 ♪ Give proof through the night ♪ 04:19.756 --> 04:24.756 ♪ That our flag was still there ♪ 04:25.743 --> 04:30.743 ♪ Oh say does that star-spangled banner yet wave ♪ 04:39.935 --> 04:44.935 ♪ O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave ♪ 04:58.244 --> 04:59.077 - Port 05:01.809 --> 05:02.642 arms! 06:01.549 --> 06:02.390 Halt! 06:02.390 --> 06:03.557 Forward march! 06:26.300 --> 06:27.133 - Ladies and gentlemen, 06:27.133 --> 06:29.320 Chaplain Vensuela will now offer indication. 06:35.320 --> 06:36.823 - Please join me in prayer. 06:38.480 --> 06:43.460 Almighty God, source of life, sustainer of all things, 06:43.460 --> 06:46.390 we invite your presence to fill this place 06:46.390 --> 06:48.810 as we celebrate our common purpose 06:48.810 --> 06:52.490 and affirm our commitment to service and excellence. 06:52.490 --> 06:55.020 Lord, the moment has come to say goodbye 06:55.020 --> 06:59.100 to Colonel Schlichenmeyer, our outgoing commander. 06:59.100 --> 07:03.090 But before he exits the stage to be reunited with his family 07:03.960 --> 07:06.620 and move on to a new place of service, 07:06.620 --> 07:10.280 we honor him for his faithful stewardship of this wing 07:10.280 --> 07:12.140 for the past year. 07:12.140 --> 07:14.760 Lord, we know that command is demanding, 07:14.760 --> 07:16.580 and at times frustrating, 07:16.580 --> 07:19.190 as each day presents unique challenges 07:19.190 --> 07:21.220 due to the urgency of the needs 07:21.220 --> 07:23.872 and the complexity of the mission. 07:23.872 --> 07:26.320 But you have blessed him and our wing 07:26.320 --> 07:30.180 with accomplishments that will endure into the future. 07:30.180 --> 07:32.750 We also welcome our new commander, Colonel Simpson, 07:32.750 --> 07:34.440 into our midst. 07:34.440 --> 07:36.360 Thank you Lord for guiding his life 07:36.360 --> 07:40.010 and leading him to this special moment in his career. 07:40.010 --> 07:44.240 As he assumes command, give him the same calm assurance 07:44.240 --> 07:47.720 to lead this wing to a new level of excellence. 07:47.720 --> 07:49.820 Be with his loved ones back home 07:49.820 --> 07:53.750 and comfort their hearts during their time of separation. 07:53.750 --> 07:55.620 Lord, we pray for all the men and women 07:55.620 --> 07:58.860 of the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing, 07:58.860 --> 08:02.420 people that joined our coalition, partners, 08:02.420 --> 08:05.240 and specially our gracious Kuwaiti hosts, 08:05.240 --> 08:07.270 that you also bless their lives 08:07.270 --> 08:10.470 and honor the sacrifice with success. 08:10.470 --> 08:13.740 Thank you for the call that you have placed upon our lives. 08:13.740 --> 08:16.050 Thank you for the blessings of freedom 08:16.050 --> 08:19.770 and for the opportunity to serve our nation and each other. 08:19.770 --> 08:21.040 Be with all our guests today 08:21.040 --> 08:23.920 and bind our hearts together in love 08:23.920 --> 08:25.730 as we continue to strive 08:25.730 --> 08:29.530 to be your instruments of peace and goodwill in this place, 08:29.530 --> 08:31.230 and wherever we go. 08:31.230 --> 08:33.490 We ask all these things in your holy name. 08:33.490 --> 08:34.323 Amen, amen. 08:41.810 --> 08:43.450 - Ladies and gentlemen, please be seated. 08:43.450 --> 08:45.510 Thank you Honor Guard, senior nu-ni-cles, 08:45.510 --> 08:46.610 and Chaplain Vensuela. 08:48.490 --> 08:49.720 Today we'll pay special tribute 08:49.720 --> 08:51.380 to Colonel Patrick L Schlichenmeyer, 08:51.380 --> 08:52.680 as he relinquishes command 08:52.680 --> 08:54.890 of the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing. 08:54.890 --> 08:56.860 We welcome Colonel Rodney L Simpson 08:56.860 --> 08:58.720 as he assumes command. 08:58.720 --> 09:00.070 The American change of command ceremony 09:00.070 --> 09:02.640 is a military tradition deeply rooted in history, 09:02.640 --> 09:05.310 dating back to 3 July, 1775 09:05.310 --> 09:06.440 when General George Washington 09:06.440 --> 09:07.750 drew his sword under an elm tree 09:07.750 --> 09:09.270 in Cambridge, Massachusetts, 09:09.270 --> 09:11.780 choosing command of the continental army. 09:11.780 --> 09:13.200 During the American Revolution, 09:13.200 --> 09:15.080 military units carried distinctive flags 09:15.080 --> 09:17.000 designed to match the colors of their uniforms 09:17.000 --> 09:19.890 and emblazoned with the motto selected by the commander. 09:19.890 --> 09:21.780 The soldiers followed their leader into battle. 09:21.780 --> 09:23.840 This flag provided a highly visible point 09:23.840 --> 09:25.450 around which members of the unit could rally 09:25.450 --> 09:27.590 during the pandemonium of battle. 09:27.590 --> 09:28.720 Because of its importance, 09:28.720 --> 09:30.410 the flag was used in the continental army's 09:30.410 --> 09:32.440 earliest change of command ceremonies. 09:32.440 --> 09:34.610 The organization's banner was exchanged in full view 09:34.610 --> 09:36.120 so every soldier could see the officer 09:36.120 --> 09:38.070 now entrusted to lead them into battle. 09:39.150 --> 09:40.130 The ceremony you see today 09:40.130 --> 09:41.620 is rooted in this military tradition, 09:41.620 --> 09:43.500 and symbolizes the passing of command 09:43.500 --> 09:44.333 so all may witness 09:44.333 --> 09:46.690 the changing of leadership responsibilities. 09:46.690 --> 09:48.080 The host for today's ceremony is 09:48.080 --> 09:50.285 Major General Alexus G Grynkewich, 09:50.285 --> 09:52.800 Commander, 9th Air Expeditionary Task Force-Levant, 09:52.800 --> 09:55.465 United States Air Force Central Command. 09:55.465 --> 09:57.715 (applause) 10:01.050 --> 10:02.410 The 386th Air Expeditionary Wing 10:02.410 --> 10:04.250 would like to recognize our distinguished guests 10:04.250 --> 10:05.840 who are present today. 10:05.840 --> 10:07.640 Shawn over Lawrence R Silverman, 10:07.640 --> 10:09.470 the Ambassador of the United States of America 10:09.470 --> 10:11.010 to the state of Kuwait, 10:11.010 --> 10:14.510 Mr Saleh Al-Sali, advisor to the mayor, 10:14.510 --> 10:16.710 Brigadier General Fahad Al-Dossari, 10:16.710 --> 10:19.220 Commander, Ali Al Salem Air Base, 10:19.220 --> 10:21.750 Brigadier General Faisal Al-Shammari, Commander, 10:21.750 --> 10:23.470 Mubarak Air Base, 10:23.470 --> 10:25.390 Brigadier General Randolph Staudenraus, 10:25.390 --> 10:28.700 Chief of the Military Cooperation, Kuwait, 10:28.700 --> 10:30.810 Brigadier General Darren Cole, Director, 10:30.810 --> 10:33.690 Command Deployment and Distribution of Operations Center, 10:33.690 --> 10:35.580 Chief Master Sergeant Jennifer Kersey, 10:35.580 --> 10:38.860 Command Chief, 9th Air Expeditionary Task Force-Levant, 10:38.860 --> 10:40.650 and VFA's time, Colonel Schlichenmeyer's wife, 10:40.650 --> 10:41.930 Jessica. 10:41.930 --> 10:43.320 We also extend a warm welcome 10:43.320 --> 10:45.970 to all our host nation guests, joint coalition partners, 10:45.970 --> 10:49.180 colonels, commanders, chiefs, superintendents, 10:49.180 --> 10:52.220 senior enlisted leaders, first sergeants, special guests, 10:52.220 --> 10:53.320 and especially the men and women 10:53.320 --> 10:55.164 of Ali Al Salem Air Base. 10:55.164 --> 10:57.414 (applause) 11:01.753 --> 11:03.850 Ladies and gentlemen, Major General Grynkewich, Commander, 11:03.850 --> 11:05.850 9th Air Expeditionary Task Force-Levant. 11:06.771 --> 11:09.021 (applause) 11:16.000 --> 11:17.140 - All right, good morning everyone 11:17.140 --> 11:19.600 and welcome to the 386th change of command. 11:19.600 --> 11:21.930 Today's a very special occasion for this wing 11:21.930 --> 11:24.260 as it signifies the end of a year 11:24.260 --> 11:26.130 with a job well done for Colonel Schlichenmeyer, 11:26.130 --> 11:30.180 and the start of an exciting journey for Colonel Simpson. 11:30.180 --> 11:31.440 It does take a lot of effort 11:31.440 --> 11:32.860 to put something like this together, 11:32.860 --> 11:36.640 so my thanks to the chaplain, to the Honor Guard, 11:36.640 --> 11:39.610 and to all of you who helped pull this off 11:39.610 --> 11:42.200 and put it together on top of all the busy schedules 11:42.200 --> 11:43.963 that you carry every single day. 11:44.930 --> 11:46.560 Ambassador, thanks for joining us today, 11:46.560 --> 11:47.610 we certainly appreciate it. 11:47.610 --> 11:51.150 Our Kuwaiti hosts, not here yet, but should they walk in 11:51.150 --> 11:53.100 we'll greet them appropriately. 11:53.100 --> 11:54.510 Tremendous hosts in this country, 11:54.510 --> 11:57.100 we appreciate all that the mission does to support them. 11:57.100 --> 11:59.060 Stodt, thanks for coming, Lemmo, good to see ya, 11:59.060 --> 12:01.773 Darren, Chief, thank you guys for being here. 12:03.230 --> 12:05.690 There's a few DVs that are a little bit more important 12:05.690 --> 12:06.923 that are here in person, 12:07.770 --> 12:10.537 and that's the family of Colonel Schlichenmeyer 12:10.537 --> 12:12.270 and Colonel Simpson. 12:12.270 --> 12:14.630 So I know Jess is watching here on Skype, 12:14.630 --> 12:16.010 so Jess, thanks for joining us, 12:16.010 --> 12:20.027 I'm sure it's some ungodly hour back home in the States. 12:20.027 --> 12:23.544 And your dedication to Schlich I may never understand, 12:23.544 --> 12:24.377 (audience laughs) 12:24.377 --> 12:26.103 but good on you and thanks for being here. 12:27.310 --> 12:30.790 And of course Schlich's supported by a bigger family, 12:30.790 --> 12:33.940 with Tyler, Michaela, Carter, Lily, and Jasmine 12:33.940 --> 12:35.820 out there as well. 12:35.820 --> 12:38.070 And then for Colonel Rod Stinger Simpson, 12:38.070 --> 12:40.840 his wife Paula and son Ryan and daughter Grace. 12:40.840 --> 12:43.230 Families are the unsung heroes 12:43.230 --> 12:44.960 of our United States Air Force, 12:44.960 --> 12:46.150 every United States military, 12:46.150 --> 12:47.590 who put up with these deployments, 12:47.590 --> 12:49.650 they support us at home, they take care of our families 12:49.650 --> 12:50.827 when we're over here. 12:50.827 --> 12:52.710 And they give us sustenance as well, 12:52.710 --> 12:55.699 so many thanks to your families 12:55.699 --> 12:58.860 for allowing you both to come over here and serve, 12:58.860 --> 13:01.800 and many thanks to all the families of all the airmen 13:01.800 --> 13:05.413 and soldiers, sailors, marines are in the audience today. 13:07.090 --> 13:10.760 So the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing, as with many wings, 13:10.760 --> 13:13.143 can trace its history back to World War Two. 13:14.040 --> 13:16.710 Back then they were the 386th Bombardment Group, 13:16.710 --> 13:19.520 and they would operate B-26 Marauders. 13:19.520 --> 13:20.510 During World War Two, 13:20.510 --> 13:22.650 the group received the Distinguished Unit Citation 13:22.650 --> 13:24.090 for having the most outstanding record 13:24.090 --> 13:25.700 of all the B-26 groups 13:25.700 --> 13:27.943 in the European Theater of Operations. 13:28.960 --> 13:33.910 75 years ago this month, on the 25th of July, 1944, 13:33.910 --> 13:36.580 the 386th participated in a massive bombardment 13:36.580 --> 13:40.350 of enemy positions around Saint-Lo. 13:40.350 --> 13:42.150 And that led to an Allied breakthrough 13:42.150 --> 13:44.520 through the Nazi lines. 13:44.520 --> 13:46.470 Today the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing 13:46.470 --> 13:49.320 continues its heritage as a primary tactical airlift hub 13:49.320 --> 13:51.110 for resupply, combat service support, 13:51.110 --> 13:53.713 and aeromedical staging in the CENTCOM AOR. 13:54.788 --> 13:56.630 It's one of our largest composite wings in the Middle East 13:56.630 --> 13:58.760 and Colonel Schlichenmeyer's been responsible 13:58.760 --> 14:01.880 for a vast mission space over his year here, 14:01.880 --> 14:03.860 delivering intelligence surveillance 14:03.860 --> 14:07.280 and reconnaissance capabilities, electronic warfare, 14:07.280 --> 14:10.920 strike, and mobility air power for CNETCOM missions, 14:10.920 --> 14:12.620 including the fight against Daesh. 14:13.560 --> 14:16.580 There isn't a single soldier, airman, sailor, marine 14:16.580 --> 14:18.670 or civilian in Iraq or Syria, 14:18.670 --> 14:21.440 indeed, throughout the entire CENTCOM AOR, 14:21.440 --> 14:22.360 that hasn't been touched 14:22.360 --> 14:25.160 by the operations of this incredible wing. 14:25.160 --> 14:27.190 Schlich, you did a tremendous job here 14:27.190 --> 14:28.900 in your time in command. 14:28.900 --> 14:30.940 You'll definitely be missed. 14:30.940 --> 14:32.970 Some of you may know this, 14:32.970 --> 14:34.690 and some of you may not have picked up on it yet, 14:34.690 --> 14:36.810 but I've known Schlich for a long time, 14:36.810 --> 14:40.440 in fact, I've known him since June of 1989, 14:40.440 --> 14:42.450 when he and I reported for basic training 14:42.450 --> 14:44.400 at the United States Air Force Academy, 14:44.400 --> 14:45.963 Colorado Springs, Colorado. 14:47.130 --> 14:48.940 There's some other things that car-drey said to me 14:48.940 --> 14:51.390 when they welcomed me there that I can't say now. 14:52.620 --> 14:55.950 He's always had, from that very early time, 14:55.950 --> 14:57.410 when we were just teenagers, Schlich, 14:57.410 --> 14:59.380 you've always had a deep dedication to the mission, 14:59.380 --> 15:02.463 boundless energy, and a genuine care for your fellow airmen. 15:03.400 --> 15:05.300 In fact, if I remember right, 15:05.300 --> 15:07.670 I think it was in the spring of 1990, 15:07.670 --> 15:09.200 I was one of the fellow airmen 15:09.200 --> 15:11.980 in desperate need of Schlich's assistance and care. 15:11.980 --> 15:15.440 And I'm relatively certain that you may be the only reason 15:15.440 --> 15:18.240 I made it through freshman Chemistry. 15:18.240 --> 15:19.291 (audience laughs) 15:19.291 --> 15:20.670 So Schlich, you've continued to supply 15:20.670 --> 15:22.950 the three traits of dedication, energy, 15:22.950 --> 15:24.147 and caring for everyone over these years, 15:24.147 --> 15:26.890 and it's made you the superior leader you are today. 15:26.890 --> 15:29.640 Your leadership made this wing tremendously successful. 15:30.600 --> 15:35.420 Near and dear to my heart and my role as DCOM for CJTF-OIR. 15:35.420 --> 15:37.930 You helped make possible the liberation 15:37.930 --> 15:41.710 of over 110,000 square kilometers of territory 15:41.710 --> 15:45.510 from Daesh control and freed about 7.7 million people 15:45.510 --> 15:48.860 from their hateful and tyrannical ideology. 15:48.860 --> 15:50.700 But your investment felt much wider than that 15:50.700 --> 15:52.430 and across the entire AOR. 15:52.430 --> 15:53.690 Most recently, 15:53.690 --> 15:56.250 I was able to witness your decisive leadership 15:56.250 --> 15:58.100 as you helped deter Iranian aggression, 15:58.100 --> 16:01.120 rapidly shifting your air power resources of this wing 16:02.260 --> 16:04.160 and fighting through some of the fog and friction 16:04.160 --> 16:06.330 that comes with doing that, 16:06.330 --> 16:09.770 in order to monitor threats to shipping in the Gulf. 16:09.770 --> 16:12.303 So thank you for your leadership through that. 16:13.470 --> 16:15.510 A few weeks ago, I was in Qatar meeting with 16:15.510 --> 16:17.259 Lieutenant General Guastella, 16:17.259 --> 16:19.300 the CFACT and AFCENT commander. 16:19.300 --> 16:23.020 And in private, he told me that he considered you 16:23.020 --> 16:26.217 one of the best wing commanders in the CENTCOM AOR, 16:26.217 --> 16:28.200 and one of the best wing commanders he's ever seen. 16:28.200 --> 16:29.540 And all I've gotta say to that is 16:29.540 --> 16:31.690 you and your family have got a lot to be proud of. 16:31.690 --> 16:32.523 Thank you. 16:33.960 --> 16:35.140 Colonel Stinger Simpson, 16:35.140 --> 16:37.700 if there's anyone who can take what Schlich started 16:37.700 --> 16:41.520 and pass it even further forward, it's you. 16:41.520 --> 16:42.353 For those who don't know, 16:42.353 --> 16:44.880 Stinger's no stranger to the CENTCOM AOR 16:44.880 --> 16:47.630 and really he's no stranger to Kuwait and Ali Al-Salem. 16:49.210 --> 16:53.230 Stinger will be entering his third command here, 16:53.230 --> 16:54.380 originally commanding the 16:54.380 --> 16:56.950 737th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron, 16:56.950 --> 16:59.510 then the 387th Air Expeditionary Group. 16:59.510 --> 17:01.110 He's got a family steeped in service; 17:01.110 --> 17:04.070 both his grandfathers served in World War Two 17:04.070 --> 17:06.880 and he's the son of a dad who retired 17:06.880 --> 17:08.800 from the United States Army. 17:08.800 --> 17:11.130 Stinger, I know we've got the right man for the job, 17:11.130 --> 17:12.690 and there's plenty of work left to be done 17:12.690 --> 17:15.010 and plenty of that job left to do. 17:15.010 --> 17:17.390 We're still working hard to ensure the complete eradication 17:17.390 --> 17:19.560 of extremist ideologies from the region. 17:19.560 --> 17:22.060 We're working hard to bolster Iraqi sovereignty, 17:22.060 --> 17:25.060 to enable political resolution to the Syrian Civil War, 17:25.060 --> 17:27.130 and protect our regional allies and partners 17:27.130 --> 17:29.120 in the face of aggression. 17:29.120 --> 17:32.120 To succeed, this wing is going to be essential, 17:32.120 --> 17:34.860 providing ISR and mobility and combat air power 17:34.860 --> 17:36.800 that enables success on the ground 17:36.800 --> 17:39.090 in a very complex situation. 17:39.090 --> 17:40.830 Your leadership will be critical to this fight 17:40.830 --> 17:42.500 and I'm excited to work with ya 17:42.500 --> 17:45.070 over the course of your command and welcome you to the team. 17:45.070 --> 17:47.020 And an incredible team it is. 17:47.020 --> 17:49.200 To the men and women of the 386th, 17:49.200 --> 17:50.730 thanks for all you do every single day 17:50.730 --> 17:52.010 and thanks for the sacrifices 17:52.010 --> 17:54.520 you and your families have made to this mission 17:54.520 --> 17:56.540 and to the defense of our nation. 17:56.540 --> 17:58.390 I know you'll be in good hands with Colonel Simpson 17:58.390 --> 18:00.140 when he takes on the role of Marauder One 18:00.140 --> 18:03.950 from Colonel Schlichenmeyer in just a few short minutes. 18:03.950 --> 18:06.040 I'm honored to serve by your side. 18:06.040 --> 18:07.363 Thank you. 18:07.363 --> 18:09.613 (applause) 18:21.930 --> 18:23.604 - Thank you General Grynkewich. 18:23.604 --> 18:25.860 Ladies and gentlemen, please stand. 18:25.860 --> 18:26.693 At this time, 18:26.693 --> 18:28.590 General Grynkewich will present Colonel Schlichenmeyer 18:28.590 --> 18:29.803 with the Legion of Merit. 18:35.425 --> 18:36.550 - Publish the orders. 18:36.550 --> 18:37.710 - Attention to orders. 18:37.710 --> 18:39.970 Colonel Patrick L Schlichenmeyer distinguished himself 18:39.970 --> 18:41.480 by exceptionally meritorious conduct 18:41.480 --> 18:43.040 in the performance of outstanding service 18:43.040 --> 18:44.680 to the United States as Commander, 18:44.680 --> 18:48.280 386th Air Expeditionary Wing, Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait, 18:48.280 --> 18:51.950 from 11 July 2018 to 11 July 2019. 18:51.950 --> 18:53.930 During this period, the exemplary ability, 18:53.930 --> 18:56.780 diligence, and devotion to duty of Colonel Schlichenmeyer 18:58.700 --> 18:59.840 were instrumental factors 18:59.840 --> 19:01.680 in the resolution of many complex problems 19:01.680 --> 19:03.660 of major importance to the Air Force. 19:03.660 --> 19:05.680 Colonel Schlichenmeyer expertly led six groups 19:05.680 --> 19:07.660 as well as 20 joint and coalition partner units, 19:07.660 --> 19:10.520 with a daily end strength of over 8,000 personnel. 19:10.520 --> 19:12.820 He enabled 76 joint and coalition aircraft 19:12.820 --> 19:15.470 to execute over 47,000 sorties 19:15.470 --> 19:18.010 supporting Operation Inherent Resolve, Freedom Sentinel, 19:18.010 --> 19:20.020 Spartan Shield, and Deliberate Resolve, 19:20.020 --> 19:22.180 as well as support for almost 100 Kuwaiti aircraft 19:22.180 --> 19:24.170 and five Kuwaiti installations. 19:24.170 --> 19:25.790 Through direct engagements of key leaders, 19:25.790 --> 19:28.410 he was able to get a five-year, 33 million dollar 19:28.410 --> 19:30.380 Kuwait forward funding logjam moving, 19:30.380 --> 19:32.440 restoring faith in the Department of Defense's ability 19:32.440 --> 19:34.290 to execute critical infrastructure projects 19:34.290 --> 19:35.660 on Kuwait's behalf. 19:35.660 --> 19:38.140 He identified inefficiencies in mobility operations 19:38.140 --> 19:40.560 which led to redesign of gateway operations, 19:40.560 --> 19:42.660 resulting in a reduction of passenger processing time 19:42.660 --> 19:46.760 by 50%, and increased cargo velocity by 45%. 19:46.760 --> 19:48.760 Colonel Schlichenmeyer was instrumental in the wing, 19:48.760 --> 19:52.350 absorbing a 700% geographical separated installation, 19:52.350 --> 19:53.810 setting the conditions for an annual 19:53.810 --> 19:57.100 16 million dollar and 700 deployed airmen savings. 19:57.100 --> 19:58.720 He drove the closing of the Air Force mission 19:58.720 --> 20:01.120 at Mubarak Air Base, and the opening of Cargo City, 20:01.120 --> 20:04.690 completing an almost four-year, 25 million dollar project. 20:04.690 --> 20:06.850 His team captured Department of Defense's first two 20:06.850 --> 20:09.450 non-kinetic small unmanned aerial vehicles. 20:09.450 --> 20:12.130 Finally, he authored Air Forces Central Command's 20:12.130 --> 20:15.020 first ever mobility air forces forced posture papers, 20:15.020 --> 20:17.450 which outline current and future requirements, 20:17.450 --> 20:19.470 issues, challenges, and opportunities. 20:19.470 --> 20:20.670 He stood up and co-chaired 20:20.670 --> 20:22.890 Air Forces Central Command's Mobility Council, 20:22.890 --> 20:26.290 consisting of cross-function inter-command members. 20:26.290 --> 20:28.560 This first-ever and one-of-a-kind senior leader forum 20:28.560 --> 20:30.580 tackled countless longstanding and systemic, 20:30.580 --> 20:32.510 strategic, and operational disconnects 20:32.510 --> 20:35.520 and issues across the intra and inter-theater gateways. 20:35.520 --> 20:37.640 The superior initiative, outstanding leadership, 20:37.640 --> 20:39.200 and personal endeavor displayed by Colonel Schlichenmeyer 20:39.200 --> 20:41.400 is like great credit upon himself 20:41.400 --> 20:43.000 and the United States Air Force. 21:03.987 --> 21:06.237 (applause) 21:17.310 --> 21:18.293 Please be seated. 21:19.140 --> 21:19.973 Ladies and gentlemen, 21:19.973 --> 21:22.080 the commander of 386th Air Expeditionary Wing, 21:22.080 --> 21:24.053 Colonel Patrick Schlichenmeyer. 21:30.100 --> 21:33.223 - It's not a matter of if, it's a matter of when. 21:34.220 --> 21:36.340 Please give a round of applause for the team 21:36.340 --> 21:37.720 that put this event event together: 21:37.720 --> 21:41.350 Leuitenant Turner, Tech Sergeant Bravo, Chaplain Vensuela, 21:41.350 --> 21:44.437 Senior Ermin Nickels, and the whole Honor Guard. 21:44.437 --> 21:46.687 (applause) 21:50.800 --> 21:53.510 Ambassador, thank you for attending today. 21:53.510 --> 21:57.180 Your leadership, mentorship, and support for me, 21:57.180 --> 22:00.320 the area and the mission, has been outstanding this year. 22:00.320 --> 22:04.170 I wish you the best in your future endeavors. 22:04.170 --> 22:06.960 Major General Grynkewich, sir, thank you 22:06.960 --> 22:10.540 for your trust in me, for space to maneuver as a commander. 22:10.540 --> 22:12.990 It's been a distinct pleasure to serve under you. 22:14.010 --> 22:17.790 Chief Kersey, thank you for your sage advice, 22:17.790 --> 22:20.190 relentless support for our area and our mission. 22:21.700 --> 22:23.800 Brigadier General Fahed and Happy, 22:23.800 --> 22:25.580 you are currently not here. 22:25.580 --> 22:28.190 Your relationship has been amazing 22:29.110 --> 22:31.950 through the coalition and through Kuwait. 22:31.950 --> 22:33.610 And it's because of their leadership 22:33.610 --> 22:35.663 is why this relationship is amazing. 22:36.910 --> 22:41.840 Solov, Ahwi, on my honorary commander. 22:41.840 --> 22:44.500 You have mentored and supported countless wing commanders 22:44.500 --> 22:46.430 over the years. 22:46.430 --> 22:50.763 Thank you for always having time and the right advice. 22:52.010 --> 22:55.090 Brigadier General Staudenraus, sir, 22:55.090 --> 22:56.027 it's been a great year 22:56.027 --> 22:57.680 and your initiatives have strengthened 22:57.680 --> 23:00.360 the coalition-Kuwaiti relationship. 23:00.360 --> 23:01.760 I wish you the best of luck. 23:03.320 --> 23:06.270 Brigadier General Cole, sir, your mentorship and guidance 23:06.270 --> 23:09.320 of a young wing commander was greatly appreciated. 23:09.320 --> 23:12.870 And your focus on the gateway is a major factor 23:12.870 --> 23:15.310 in the improvements that CENTCOM has made in logistics 23:15.310 --> 23:16.260 over the past year. 23:17.390 --> 23:20.250 Palo, my Italian friend, 23:20.250 --> 23:22.673 your US-Italian relationships are strong. 23:28.370 --> 23:31.180 You and Stinger will continue, I'm sure. 23:31.180 --> 23:32.230 Good luck, my friend. 23:34.090 --> 23:36.573 Colonel Bidney, my neighbor to the north. 23:37.670 --> 23:39.960 It has been a distinct pleasure serving alongside 23:39.960 --> 23:41.160 the Canadian contingent. 23:42.380 --> 23:47.380 Colonel Whirly, the ASG in Kuwait and the NAW 23:48.460 --> 23:49.883 are forever intertwined. 23:50.775 --> 23:55.030 Your team is great partners with the wing. 23:55.030 --> 23:56.330 Good luck in your command. 23:57.470 --> 23:59.073 Colonel Jubeck, Lionel, 24:00.470 --> 24:02.520 thank you for your focus on the issues 24:02.520 --> 24:04.450 that affected the wing. 24:04.450 --> 24:05.960 You are the silent team member 24:05.960 --> 24:07.810 that always comes through in the end. 24:09.770 --> 24:14.770 Rihanna, thank you for attending and caring about our airmen 24:15.140 --> 24:17.780 and working on our initiatives. 24:17.780 --> 24:19.093 Rozzy, Zola, 24:21.860 --> 24:23.370 my wing extended family. 24:23.370 --> 24:25.770 For years, you and your family have adopted the wing 24:25.770 --> 24:27.273 and treated us like kin. 24:28.120 --> 24:31.100 Thank you for your generosity, your kindness, 24:31.100 --> 24:32.100 and your friendship. 24:35.190 --> 24:40.190 Stinger, your leadership is in place, your team is amazing. 24:40.740 --> 24:42.010 You are ready. 24:42.010 --> 24:45.410 Many years of deployments and combat commands at all level 24:45.410 --> 24:47.330 have prepared you for this day. 24:47.330 --> 24:50.963 My only advice to you is lead and never stop being you. 24:52.130 --> 24:55.980 Paula, once again, thank you for your sacrifice 24:55.980 --> 24:58.090 so Stinger can serve. 24:58.090 --> 25:00.130 You have done this many times 25:00.130 --> 25:02.510 but that doesn't mean it's easy. 25:02.510 --> 25:04.920 I know Stinger has done far more 25:04.920 --> 25:08.000 than his fair share of deployments, 25:08.000 --> 25:11.430 but there are over 8,000 airmen, joint coalition partners 25:11.430 --> 25:14.220 that need his focus, his leadership. 25:14.220 --> 25:16.210 Thank you for sharing him. 25:16.210 --> 25:18.743 Ryan and Grace, your dad is a true patriot. 25:19.630 --> 25:22.440 He has once again answered his nation call 25:22.440 --> 25:24.190 for which I know you will be would. 25:25.090 --> 25:28.560 To the men and women of the 386th AEW, 25:28.560 --> 25:31.690 you make the extraordinary look ordinary. 25:31.690 --> 25:33.530 You are a high-performance unit, 25:33.530 --> 25:37.160 from the commanders on down to each and every airmen. 25:37.160 --> 25:39.860 There was not a single accomplishment 25:39.860 --> 25:44.160 on my award or that the ninth ad-e-fel talked about 25:44.160 --> 25:47.550 that was not attributed to each and every one of you. 25:47.550 --> 25:49.950 Group commanders, thank you for your leadership. 25:53.140 --> 25:55.600 Chiefs, thank you for just being chiefs 25:55.600 --> 25:57.860 and making things work. 25:57.860 --> 26:00.350 Squadron commanders and shirts, 26:00.350 --> 26:02.620 you made my command easy this year. 26:02.620 --> 26:03.453 Thank you. 26:04.290 --> 26:08.170 Chief, my battle buddy, my combat-in-arms. 26:08.170 --> 26:11.855 The year's over, well for you it was 400 days. 26:11.855 --> 26:12.770 (audience laughs) 26:12.770 --> 26:16.913 Your leadership, tenacious defense of our airmen, 26:18.770 --> 26:20.380 and steadfast focus on the mission 26:20.380 --> 26:22.080 has been nothing short of amazing. 26:23.090 --> 26:25.230 You are a quintessential command chief. 26:25.230 --> 26:27.130 Good luck at AETC. 26:27.130 --> 26:30.260 And give the family a heartfelt thank you for me, 26:30.260 --> 26:35.260 Jess, my love, when I was lost, you found me. 26:37.405 --> 26:39.450 And my life has never been better. 26:39.450 --> 26:42.140 Thank you for your unwavering support, 26:42.140 --> 26:46.390 your willingness to sacrifice so much so that I can serve. 26:46.390 --> 26:49.170 Three senior leader deployments over the past six years 26:49.170 --> 26:52.380 is enough, and it's time for me to come home. 26:52.380 --> 26:54.273 See you soon, my little redhead girl. 26:55.190 --> 26:58.250 Tyler and Michaela, Carter and Lily, Jasmine, 26:58.250 --> 27:00.080 can't wait to see you all again. 27:00.080 --> 27:02.660 I'm proud of each and every one of you. 27:02.660 --> 27:05.110 Wing command has been the highlight of my career. 27:05.990 --> 27:06.953 Marauder One out. 27:08.734 --> 27:10.984 (applause) 27:24.392 --> 27:25.280 - Thank you Colonel Schlichenmeyer. 27:25.280 --> 27:27.843 Please stand for the official change of command ceremony. 27:36.420 --> 27:37.750 - Publish the orders. 27:39.830 --> 27:40.740 - Attention to orders. 27:40.740 --> 27:43.720 Under the provision of Air Force Instruction 51-604 27:43.720 --> 27:47.480 and special order number G-19-21, 27:47.480 --> 27:49.220 Colonel Rodney L Simpson assumes command 27:49.220 --> 27:51.120 of the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing 27:51.120 --> 27:54.140 by order of Major General Alexus G Grynkewich, 27:54.140 --> 27:56.240 9th Air Expeditionary Task Force-Levant, 27:56.240 --> 27:58.380 United States Air Force Central Command. 28:25.460 --> 28:26.920 - Sir, assume the command. 28:33.119 --> 28:35.369 (applause) 28:49.650 --> 28:51.200 - Please be seated. 28:51.200 --> 28:52.560 Ladies and gentlemen, 28:52.560 --> 28:54.810 it is my pleasure to introduce for the first time, 28:54.810 --> 28:57.140 the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing Commander, 28:57.140 --> 28:58.363 Colonel Rodney Simpson. 29:03.770 --> 29:05.200 - Well good morning. 29:05.200 --> 29:08.010 Ambassador Silverman, Mr Schla, 29:08.010 --> 29:09.660 thank you so much for being here. 29:11.330 --> 29:13.203 General Cole, General Staudenraus, 29:14.700 --> 29:16.610 thanks for taking the time to come out 29:16.610 --> 29:19.300 and be a part of this event celebrating 29:19.300 --> 29:22.050 all the great work that Schlich has done over the last year. 29:22.050 --> 29:25.660 I only hope to just keep the ball rolling. 29:25.660 --> 29:27.100 General Princkerwish, 29:27.100 --> 29:30.180 thank you to you and General Castella for the opportunity 29:30.180 --> 29:32.320 to lead again in this AOR. 29:32.320 --> 29:34.910 Your trust honors me, and I will give this wing, 29:34.910 --> 29:37.400 the airmen, soldiers, sailors, marines, 29:37.400 --> 29:39.790 joint coalition partners who did the work 29:39.790 --> 29:42.650 on all three of the installations that this wing oversees, 29:42.650 --> 29:44.190 100% of my effort 29:44.190 --> 29:46.340 to ensure that your trust is not misplaced. 29:47.220 --> 29:49.190 To the rest of our distinguished guests, 29:49.190 --> 29:50.540 including some old friends, 29:51.560 --> 29:54.100 thank you for making the effort to attend today. 29:54.100 --> 29:56.970 Your commitment to the forces operating here in your country 29:56.970 --> 29:58.847 is like nothing I've experienced anywhere in the world. 29:58.847 --> 30:03.590 And I've been to a bunch of places with a bunch of partners 30:03.590 --> 30:08.120 and the welcoming friendship of the Kuwaiti people 30:08.120 --> 30:10.823 is just simply unmatched anywhere in the world. 30:12.057 --> 30:16.970 For Schlich, thank you for the tremendous personal effort 30:16.970 --> 30:19.700 you've expended to hand me an organization 30:19.700 --> 30:21.600 that's firing on all cylinders. 30:21.600 --> 30:25.630 I've been asked many times in my life to go fix things 30:25.630 --> 30:29.660 that were broken, that weren't running the way they should. 30:29.660 --> 30:30.960 That's not the case today. 30:31.820 --> 30:35.800 You're handing me an organization that knows its job, 30:35.800 --> 30:38.990 knows what's important, and has been working hard at it 30:38.990 --> 30:40.530 for a long time. 30:40.530 --> 30:41.480 So thanks for that. 30:44.420 --> 30:45.793 Well done. 30:45.793 --> 30:47.410 All the best to you, Jess, and the kids. 30:47.410 --> 30:51.070 As you return to your family and the solid 18 days you have 30:51.070 --> 30:53.873 until you have to be in your next seat doing good work. 30:55.060 --> 30:56.000 If you haven't figured it out, 30:56.000 --> 30:58.454 the reward for good work is just more work. 30:58.454 --> 31:00.060 (audience laughs) 31:00.060 --> 31:00.893 But I appreciate you 31:00.893 --> 31:02.660 and appreciate everything you've done. 31:02.660 --> 31:03.753 To my family, 31:04.710 --> 31:06.810 I cannot thank you enough for supporting me 31:06.810 --> 31:08.330 with your whole hearts. 31:08.330 --> 31:12.120 We ask our families to endure deployment after deployment, 31:12.120 --> 31:14.163 hard job after hard job. 31:15.077 --> 31:16.520 And for me, 31:16.520 --> 31:19.310 you've always pushed me to accept the next challenge, 31:19.310 --> 31:21.740 even when I may have been hesitant. 31:21.740 --> 31:24.610 When I thought you'd already done too much, 31:24.610 --> 31:25.810 you said go do it again. 31:27.890 --> 31:31.963 So to my bride of 26 years and my nearly grandkids, 31:33.590 --> 31:35.090 thank you. 31:35.090 --> 31:37.180 I'm proud of your willingness to stand with me 31:37.180 --> 31:39.590 when the call comes again and again. 31:39.590 --> 31:40.820 Finally, for the Marauders 31:40.820 --> 31:43.190 of the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing. 31:43.190 --> 31:45.760 I could not be prouder to stand here today, 31:45.760 --> 31:49.470 knowing the enormous power for good that you represent 31:49.470 --> 31:50.620 and all your potential. 31:52.210 --> 31:53.350 The phenomenal gift it is, 31:53.350 --> 31:56.450 to be allowed to help you unleash that power 31:56.450 --> 31:58.170 over the next year, 31:58.170 --> 32:00.780 is something I'm extremely thankful for. 32:00.780 --> 32:02.080 Our mission is very clear. 32:03.130 --> 32:05.130 We will deliver and enable combat power. 32:06.410 --> 32:09.453 We will build and maintain partners and friendships. 32:11.110 --> 32:13.060 We will identify and seize opportunity. 32:14.000 --> 32:15.290 And we'll take care of each other 32:15.290 --> 32:16.490 while we do all of that. 32:17.670 --> 32:18.503 I have no doubt 32:18.503 --> 32:21.530 that we will continue to conquer every challenge. 32:21.530 --> 32:24.720 Thank you for raising your hands, stepping forward, 32:24.720 --> 32:26.252 and saying send me. 32:26.252 --> 32:27.324 Thank you. 32:27.324 --> 32:29.574 (applause) 32:38.564 --> 32:39.560 - Thank you Colonel Simpson. 32:39.560 --> 32:41.620 Please stand for the Air Force song 32:41.620 --> 32:44.867 and remain standing for the departure of the official party. 32:54.369 --> 32:57.619 ("The U.S. Air Force") 33:01.844 --> 33:05.464 ♪ Off we go into the wild blue yonder ♪ 33:05.464 --> 33:09.278 ♪ Climbing high into the sun ♪ 33:09.278 --> 33:13.122 ♪ Here they come zooming to meet our thunder ♪ 33:13.122 --> 33:15.752 ♪ At 'em boys, give 'er the gun ♪ 33:15.752 --> 33:17.106 ♪ Give 'er the gun ♪ 33:17.106 --> 33:20.864 ♪ Down we dive, spouting our flames from under ♪ 33:20.864 --> 33:24.441 ♪ Off with one helluva roar ♪ 33:24.441 --> 33:27.955 ♪ We live in fame or go down in flame ♪ 33:27.955 --> 33:28.788 ♪ Hey ♪ 33:28.788 --> 33:33.121 ♪ Nothing can stop the US Air Force ♪ 33:53.250 --> 33:54.083 - Ladies and gentlemen, 33:54.083 --> 33:56.000 thank you for attending today's change of command. 33:56.000 --> 33:57.330 You're all invited to enjoy some cake 33:57.330 --> 33:59.980 at the back of the theater and welcome our new commander. 33:59.980 --> 34:01.880 Additionally, all distinguished guests and visitors 34:01.880 --> 34:03.130 are invited to a reception being held 34:03.130 --> 34:04.551 in the wing conference room. 34:04.551 --> 34:05.384 Thank you.