New commander takes position in 916th Mission Support Group

  • Published
  • By Maj. Shannon Mann
  • 916th Public Affairs Office
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  June 2 was a busy day at the 916th Air Refueling Wing.

As more than 250 Airmen prepared to deploy for Volk Field, Wisconsin, there was a major leadership change occurring at the Reserve wing that day as well.

After nine years leading the 916th Mission Support Group, Col. Harry Woodson relinquished command to Col. James Hurley during an official ceremony held at the base theater.

Col. Randall Ogden, 916th ARW commander, addressed the more than 100 people present telling Col. Hurley, "You take over a tremendous mission support group. We are heading for great things."

Col. Ogden also expressed his appreciation to Col. Woodson. "You have 33 years of outstanding service. It's been a great career in teaching leadership."

As Col. Woodson bid his farewell to his troops he ensured to include his wife, Kathy, in his speech. "My wife was instrumental in getting me through all of this."

If you knew Col. Woodson, then you knew his wife as she was involved in many family support activities and the spouse's club here. It was very much her good-bye to the wing as well as the retiring commander presented her with flowers.

The incoming commander is no stranger to the 916th though. In fact, Col. Hurley started his career here in 1990.

"How do you follow nine years of excellence?" he asked the crowd.

Col. Hurley joked with the audience and talked a bit about his background, but made sure to leave the crowd with a promise of his leadership mantra. "Supporting the mission here at this base is our day-today job," he said.

I will work hard for you every single day," said Col. Hurley. "I will always take care of the people."