512th MSG commander retires after 31-year Air Force career

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Andria J. Allmond
  • 512th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  Col. Elaine K. Barron, 512th Mission Support Group commander, marked the conclusion of her Air Force career among family, friends and colleagues during her retirement ceremony here Feb. 5 at the Air Mobility Command Museum.

The ceremony honored the many accomplishments of Colonel Barron during her 31-year career in the Air Force and Air Force Reserve.

"No one is successful in the Air Force without friends and family," said Colonel Barron. "By this, I mean not only my family at home but also my Air Force family. I've been lucky to have been surrounded by both."

Col. Randal L. Bright, 512th Airlift Wing commander, retired Colonel Barron and spoke of the dedication and loyalty Col. Barron has shown during her Air Force career, and addressed her future endeavors.

"You've had a phenomenal career," Colonel Bright said. "But, it's not over. This is just a chapter."

He also remarked that, even though the Air Force Reserve is losing a good officer, he knows Colonel Barron will always be part of the Air Force family.

Colonel Barron began her active-duty Air Force career in 1979 after graduating from the University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, Ala. She became the personnel officer at Columbus Air Force Base, Miss. Entering the Air Force Reserve in 1990, she went on to six other Reserve-associated assignments before becoming the 512th MSG commander in 2006.

During her ceremony, she applauded the servicemembers and civilians she worked with while stationed here.

"What a dedicated, outstanding group," said Colonel Barron, in reference to her 512th MSG Airmen. "You all deserve to be honored for what you have done," she said. "I recognize the service and sacrifice that you make goes far beyond one weekend a month. It was an honor being your group commander."

During her distinguished career, the colonel earned many awards and decorations, including the Legion of Merit Award and the Meritorious Service Medal with two oak-leaf clusters.

Colonel Barron closed the ceremony by rendering her final salute to a formation of posted Airmen from various wing squadrons.

"What I've learned in my career is how to effectively lead," she said. "You hire talented, smart people and get out of their way."