Maj. Wade R. Parks assumes command of 50th Aerial Port Squadron

  • Published
  • By Tech Sgt. Heather Cozad Staley
  • 452 AMW Public Affairs
March Air Reserve Base, Calif. --  

Maj. Wade R. Parks assumed command of the 50th Aerial Port Squadron during an assumption of command ceremony that was conducted at the 50th APS conference room, here at March Air Reserve Base, March 9.

Col. Kelly E. Hosey, 452nd Mission Support Group commander, presided over the assumption of command ceremony.

Hosey reflected on Parks' ability to guarantee the 50th APS's continued emphasis on excellence as recipients of the 2016 National Defense Transportation Award and status as the largest material handling equipment fleet in the Air Force Reserve.  "Major Parks is clearly the best choice to take command of the 50th APS," said Hosey. "I truly look forward to watching your continued success." 

The ceremony involved Hosey's passing of the squadron's guide-on to Parks that signifies the formal invocation of responsibility, authority, and accountability to him. 

Parks began his career in the Air Force as an enlisted member, serving in the para-rescue career field between the years of 1993 to 2000.  Parks was commissioned September 2000, after graduating with a bachelor of science in biology from the University of Texas, Austin earlier that year.  Parks has been serving as the Director of Operations for the 26th Aerial Port Squadron before assuming command of the 50th APS.

As a part of his remarks, Parks looks forward as he assumes command.  "I already know the great work of the 50th APS and it is a pleasure to be here as your commander," said Parks. "I know you all have the toughest job."

Parks emphasized his commitment to leading his new squadron, with a ray of optimism. "I will do my best to continue the legacy of greatness."

Parks made a point to address his new squadron with a leadership perspective from the 1997 movie "Starship Troopers."  Parks explained, "my leadership philosophy is: 'everybody fights, nobody quits.'"

Parks assumed command of the 50th APS; effective March 9, 2019.