60 MSG change of command

Col. Mark, 60th Air Mobility Wing commander, Col. Stephen Shea, former 60th MSG commander and Col. James Spaulding, new 60th MSG commander, salute during a change-of-command in front of wing headquarters July 10. Colonel Shea relinquished command to Colonel Spaulding during the ceremony. (U.S. Air Force photo/ Nan Wylie)

New support group commander begins tour at Travis

Published July 15, 2008
By Senior Airman Shaun Emery
60th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs

TRAVIS AFB, Calif. -- The 60th Mission Support Group welcomed their new commander at a change-of-command ceremony in front of the 60th Air Mobility Wing headquarters building July 10.

Col. James Spaulding arrives from Europe where he served as J6 ISAF Strategic Direction Center, Communications and Information Systems Division (J-6) chief, Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe, Mons, Belgium.

As 60th MSG commander, Colonel Spaulding directs 2,200 personnel in seven squadrons responsible for aerial port operations, civil engineer, communications, contracting, logistics readiness, personnel, security and services supporting a base community of 75,000 personnel. He controls an annual budget of over $100 million and resources exceeding $450 million.

"I would like to thank Colonel Dillon for the tremendous opportunity to be part of this terrific wing," he said during his speech. "Through 60 years of history and extraordinary efforts, Travis is well above the rest, and I pledge to keep it there."

And to the outgoing commander, Col. Steve Shea he expressed gratitude for his work as 60th MSG commander.

"Thank you for leaving the Mission Support Group and the 60th Air Mobility Wing in such great shape," he said. "You've left your mark all over Travis, and I am not just a little intimidated about how I will follow suit. Best wishes to you, Kelly, Kristie and Heidi as you move to D.C."

Colonel Spaulding said he had a hard time leaving his last command but was eagerly anticipating accepting his new one.

"I stand here with a Mission Support Group filled with new people, new challenges, and new opportunities, I can tell you that I am on top of the world again," he said. "I look forward to meeting you all, working with you, and for you, to take Travis to the next level."