General Melin relinquishes command to Colonel McGregor

  • Published
  • By Megan Just
  • 452 AMW Public Affairs
MARCH AIR RESERVE BASE, CALIF. --  Colonel Udo K. McGregor took command of the 452nd Air Mobility Wing from Brig. Gen. James L. Melin at a change of command ceremony held in the C-17 hangar at March ARB, Saturday, Mar. 27.

More than 400 guests were in attendance to bid farewell to General Melin and welcome Col. McGregor. The guests included family, friends, military members, Department of Defense employees and prominent members of national and local legislative bodies, including Mr. Alton Garrett, representing U.S. Sen. Barbara Boxer; Mr. Dirk Konopik, representing U.S. Rep. Ken Calvert; and Ms. Bonnie Flickinger, Mayor of Moreno Valley.

The change of command began with master of ceremonies Maj. Maureen H. McAllen, commander of 452nd Force Support Squadron, introducing the official party.

The U.S. Air Force Band of the Golden West Travis Brass Quintet played marching music and "Ruffles and Flourishes" for their entrance.

The Blue Eagles Total Force Honor Guard posted the colors and honor guard member Tech. Sgt. Neil Ballecer sang the national anthem. Chaplain Lt. Col. Richard Givens gave the invocation.

Maj. Gen. Eric W. Crabtree, commander Fourth Air Force and presiding officer for the morning, presented General Melin with the Distinguished Service Medal for his contributions during 39 years of service.

"It's certainly an honor for me to come to honor General Melin as he and Linda move on to a new phase of their life and to welcome Colonel McGregor, Jill and the boys as they come here to join the 452nd community," General Crabtree said.

After wishing General Melin farewell and welcoming Colonel McGregor, General Crabtree turned the microphone over to General Melin.

"Primarily we're here today to welcome Karl, Jill, Kolin and Keegan to the Inland Empire and the 452nd AMW," said General Melin. Karl and Jill in particular, you will come to understand this assignment and this opportunity is unlike any other opportunity the U.S. Air Force Reserve has to offer."

General Melin then read a poem that has motivated and inspired him over the years called "I Believe in You." The poem speaks of the limitless possibilities available to people who have been told at some point in their lives, "I believe in you."

He concluded by saying what a pleasure it's been serving at Team March.

"I would like to thank my family and friends and every member of the 452nd AMW for allowing me to have my dream come true; thank you," said General Melin.

During the change of command ceremony, General Melin handed the 452 AMW guidon to General Crabtree, thereby relinquishing command. General Crabtree handed the 452 AMW guidon to Colonel McGregor, who accepted command.

The new wing commander stepped up to the podium and told the audience he is here to serve, provide resources and take care of the base.

"The backbone of my ability to do this is, of course, Jill and my two boys, Keegan and Kolin," Colonel McGregor said.

He also spoke about the expectations he has of the wing.

"It's pretty simple; we're going to fly, fight and win," said Colonel McGregor. "I really, truly believe that the wing can take the next step to greatness."

The ceremony concluded with a final inspection of the troops from General Melin and a final salute to the commander of the troops, Col. Jeff Pennington.

After, guests made their way to the reception line where they were able to greet the new commander and his family. Guests were also invited to tour the KC-135 Stratotanker and C-17 Globemaster III that were parked behind the stage.