Colonel Bryan M. Bailey Assumes Command of 452nd Air Mobility Wing Published March 21, 2024 By MSgt Wendy Day 452 AMW March Air Reserve Base, Calif. -- MARCH AIR RESERVE BASE, Calif. (March 16, 2024) — Colonel Bryan M. Bailey assumed command of the 452nd Air Mobility Wing during a ceremony held today at March Air Reserve Base, California. As the newly appointed commander, Colonel Bailey will lead the Air Force Reserve's largest wing, comprising more than 4,000 personnel, nine C-17As, and 14 KC-135Rs. In this role, he will oversee the support of worldwide airlift and air refueling operations, directing efforts vital to national defense. Colonel Bailey's extensive experience spans over two decades of dedicated service to the United States Air Force. He entered the Air Force through the United States Air Force Academy in 2001 and is a seasoned command pilot with over 6,000 flight hours to his credit. His commendable career includes numerous assignments in operations and training, further underscored by his leadership roles in various capacities across different commands. Before assuming command of the 452nd Air Mobility Wing, Colonel Bailey served as the Commander of the 911th Airlift Wing, where he led 1,893 military and civilian personnel. His diverse portfolio also includes deployments in support of multiple operations, including ENDURING FREEDOM, IRAQI FREEDOM, and SPARTAN SHIELD, among others. In his address to the assembled personnel, Colonel Bailey expressed his enthusiasm for becoming part of the 452nd Air Mobility Wing. Reflecting on his journey, he shared personal insights into his commitment to service, drawing parallels between his upbringing and the ethos of military duty. He emphasized the fundamental role of every member of the 452nd Air Mobility Wing as a warfighter, stressing the importance of readiness, mobilization, and the collective commitment to national defense. Colonel Bailey's vision for the wing revolves around the core principles of defending the base, mobilizing forces, and taking the fight to the enemy, aligning with the broader objectives of the Air Force's mission. In addition to Colonel Bailey's remarks, Major General Derin S. Durham, provided insights into leadership and dedication, stating, "If you are current and present for your airmen, they will be current and ready for you. We are a ready force, ready now." General Durham also advised airmen, "My advice to you, California Knights from the 452nd, is to work it. This is the best side hustle you will ever have. You should love what you do here. You are part of an amazing organization of volunteers that makes a real-world difference in the balance of power around the world. Embrace it." As the new commander, Colonel Bailey urged all personnel to reflect on their contributions to the overarching mission, encouraging a culture of accountability and excellence. He called on supervisors to lead by example, fostering a sense of purpose and dedication among their teams. In closing, Colonel Bailey reiterated the importance of each individual's role in fulfilling the wing's mission, emphasizing the significance of collective effort and unwavering commitment to excellence. He challenged every member to ask themselves, "What did you do as a warfighter today?" — a question that encapsulates the ethos of the 452nd Air Mobility Wing under his command. With Colonel Bryan M. Bailey at the helm, the 452nd Air Mobility Wing stands poised to uphold its legacy of service and excellence, ensuring readiness and effectiveness in the face of evolving challenges. For more information, contact: Public Affairs Office 452nd Air Mobility Wing March Air Reserve Base, Calif. 951-655-4138 www.march.afrc.af.mil www.twitter.com/@march_arb www.Facebook.com/TeamMarch