SAN ANGELO, TX -- Keeping in line with a long-standing military tradition, Goodfellow Air Force Base hosted a Change of Command ceremony on Tuesday, July 13th. The outgoing commander, Colonel Andres R. Nazario, officially relinquished command of the 17th Training Wing to Colonel Matthew R. Reilman.
For the past two years, Col. Nazario led Goodfellow AFB through the Covid-19 pandemic, an epic snowstorm, and a water crisis while working tirelessly to bring the 17th Training Wing to the 21st century.
During the ceremony, Nazario took the time to thank all those who had been part of his support group and helped Goodfellow thrive.
Nazario became visibly emotional as he reflected on his time at the base and shared his experiences with the crowd.
The ceremony took place before presiding officer Major General Andrea D. Tullos, the Commander of the Second Air Force at Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi, Missouri.
Maj. Gen Tullos is responsible for the development, oversight, and direction of all operational aspects of all basic military training, initial skills training, and advanced and supplemental non-flying training for more than 90 percent of the Air Force.
After the singing of the national anthem and invocation, Maj. Gen Tullos addressed the crowd gathered at the Parade Field.
"Colonel Nazario is a fearless adapter, who doesn't hesitate to want to try something that has the prospect of making our airmen and the wing better, stronger, more lethal, more ready, and more effective," said Tullos. "In a command which prouds itself on carrying torches, under Naz's leadership Goodfellow stepped out and blazed the trail."
Maj Gen Tullos also welcomed Col Reilman and his family to the base during her speech.
"You've reached escape velocity from the Pentagon and, you are now about the right distance from the hot zone. You will find the San Angelo community you experienced as a Lieutenant in training just as warm and welcoming, but a little more wired for war-fighting," said Tullos. " It is impossible to walk around the 17th Training Wing and not fall in love with our Air Force. Your wing and your partners are a cross-section of our nation's military forces, and as you crisscross the base you'll be amazed at the diversity of missions that set the foundation."
As the time came to officially relinquish command of the base, all three military leaders stood before the crowd and completed the rite of passage that may be simple but is the start of a challenging endeavor.
Colonel Reilman also addressed the crowd as the new commander where he took the time to thank his predecessor, his family, and all the servicemen and women that are part of Goodfellow. With the conclusion of his remarks, the Pass in Review kicked off as servicemembers of each branch saluted the new commander.
Attendees were then invited to attend a private reception in honor of Reilman.
In August of 2000, Col Reilman was stationed at Goodfellow AFB as a student at the 315th Training Squadron where he completed an Intelligence Officer Course.
Before returning to Goodfellow AFB, Colonel Reilman served as the Director of Staff, Headquarters, U.S. Air Force, Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance and Cyber Effects Operations, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.
Colonel Matthew R. Reilman.
Subscribe to the LIVE! Daily
Required
Post a comment to this article here: