Team Dover welcomes new commander

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Samuel Taylor
  • 436th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  Hundreds of Team Dover members rendered a first salute to their new wing commander, Col. Richard Moore, Jr., during a change of command ceremony Aug. 27 here.

Moore assumed command of the 436th Airlift Wing from Col. Mark Camerer, who will assume command of the 37th Training Wing at Joint Base San Antonio, Texas. Camerer took command of Dover AFB in January 2011.

In his parting remarks, Camerer told Moore, "These Airmen will continue to meet today's challenges so that our nation will bear tomorrow's emergencies. These Airmen will continue to soar under your leadership."

Moore, a U.S. Air Force Academy graduate, is a command pilot with more than 3,200 hours of flying experience in the KC-135R, C-12F, C-5A/B and C-17A. He takes command of the wing after a two-year tour as vice commander of Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash.

During the ceremony, Moore spoke on his responsibilities to Team Dover's Airmen: "I pledge to you my undying commitment to your mission readiness, your health and welfare, and the safety and security of your families. There is no greater honor than to serve beside you."

The ceremony was attended by honorary commanders, local civic and military leaders, and government officials. Lt. Gen. Darren McDew, 18th Air Force commander, officiated the ceremony.

When asked if Moore was the right man to handle the intricate demands and responsibilities offered at Dover AFB, McDew said, "Absolutely, when you are looking for a commander, you want someone with credibility and the requisite experience who has gained the respect of soldiers, sailors, Marines, Airmen, and their peers and subordinates; Col. Moore is the right man for that job."

McDew is confident that Dover AFB's Airmen are in good hands.

"Airmen are the foundation of Dover's success.," he continued. "Col. Moore is going to lead, guide and motivate, but it's the Airmen's innovation, work ethic, skill and determination that will ensure the wing's success. There will be challenges, but you will be ready for them."