Burger takes reigns of 452nd AMW

  • Published
  • By Senior Airmen Joseph Dangidang
  • 452nd AMW Public Affairs

The 452nd Air Mobility Wing held their formal Change of Command ceremony at the Cultural Resource Center at March Air Reserve Base on July 29, 2017.

In front of more than 100 attendees that included Air Force and local civic leaders, Team March members, family and friends, Maj. Gen. Randall A. Ogden, Commander of the 4th Air Force, Air Force Reserve Command, passed the 452nd AMW guidon to Col. Matthew Burger signifying the transfer of formal invocation of responsibility, authority, and accountability of the Wing from Brig. Gen. Russell A. Muncy to Burger.

Colonel Burger began his career upon graduation from the Air Force Academy in 1990 and after nearly 10 years on active duty, he joined the Air Force Reserve with the 301st Rescue Squadron, Patrick AFB, Florida. Burger has held numerous leadership and command positions, most recently as chief, Programs and Requirements Division, Office of Air Force Reserve, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, Washington, DC.

Ogden thanked Burger’s family members for supporting an Airmen (Burger) that embodies the Air Force’s core values.

“He is a servant leader and he will do things before he’ll ask others to do them,” said Ogden. It is great to have you in the mobility world, you are absolutely a tremendous leader.

Although Brig. Gen. Russell A. Muncy relinquished his duties as commanding officer of the 452nd AMW, he will be staying at March ARB as he moves into his new role as vice commander of the 4th Air Force. Muncy had commanded the 452nd AMW since November of 2013 and he and Burger had previously worked together at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland.

“It has been an honor and a pleasure, but you know what? I am leaving you in such good hands; there are none finer than Col. Mat Burger,” said Muncy. “I’ve seen his (Burger) work ethic and the caliber of an individual he is, there is absolutely no better leader to take over as the commander of the 452nd than Col. Mat Burger.”

Burger graciously thanked everyone for their attendance and support, and also thanked Ogden for the opportunity to command the 452nd AMW. Burger shared some stories about a few Airmen because he believes it’s not about the planes or equipment we use, it’s about the people.

 “I think the strength of this Wing, our Airmen who make up this Wing, their hearts beat strong,” said Burger. “I would choose to serve at no other place then the 452nd and with the fine men and women who make up this organization; I look forward to serving with you.”