Reserve wing welcomes new OG commander

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Erika Brooke
  • 512th AW/PA
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  Col. Jonathan M. Philebaum assumed command of the 512th Operations Group in a ceremony held at the base theater here, July 13. Philebaum replaced Col. D. Scott Durham who served as the 512th OG commander for nearly two years.

Col. Raymond Kozak, 512th Airlift Wing commander, who officiated the ceremony, said senior leadership was searching for someone eager and willing to step up and complete the mission. He stated that Philebaum readily agreed to oversee the reserve flying operations and worldwide employment of the C-5M Super Galaxy and C-17A Globemaster III.

"He is definitely the right man for this position and he will do the right thing for the Air Force," said Kozak. "(Philebaum) has the brain power and operational expertise for this position. He is absolutely the right man, this is the right job, and this is the right time."

Philebaum addressed the audience in regard to the 512th OG's mission as it relates to Liberty Wing Airmen and how he will lead his new group.

"We need three things: passionate people, a mission, and a way to give back of ourselves in the community for total force partnership, said Philebaum. "You all help put fingerprints on what makes up the 512th Operations Group, and upholding these three things will round out our mission. We will not fail."

Prior to taking over command of the 512th OG, Philebaum served as the 730th Air Mobility Training Squadron commander, Altus AFB, Okla.