133rd Airlift Wing Welcomes New Base Commander

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Kari Giles
  • 133rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
St. Paul, Minn. - --  Airmen of the 133rd Airlift Wing, along with many distinguished guests, assembled in the north hangar, as Brig. Gen. Greg Haase, 133rd wing commander, handed over his authority to Col. James Johnson, former commander of the 133rd Operations Group, Aug. 18, 2013, at the Air National Guard base here.

This change of command ceremony was unique one in which Haase's son, 2nd Lt. Douglas Haase, 133rd Medical Group, was the event's master of ceremonies . This gave him the honor of participating in recognizing his father for his many accomplishments during his tenure as the wing commander, including the presentation of the prestigious Legion of Merit.

The event was a combination of remembering Haase's outstanding leadership during his time here and looked ahead to what Johnson will bring to the position in the future.

"I have confidence in you," said Maj. Gen. Richard Nash, The Adjutant General of the State of Minnesota, in addressing Johnson, "Confidence that you will be able to continue the fine traditions and standards that your predecessor and predecessors have set before you."

After seven years in command, Haase leaves big shoes for Johnson to fill. With the budget constraints, sequestration and the newly revamped inspection system comes many new challenges, ones that Johnson looks forward to taking on.

"To all of you here at the 133rd, it's been an amazing run," said Haase. "Hope you all continue to have fun and enjoy the ride, 'cause it's a great one!"

The ceremony ended as the Air Force song played and the official party exited the stage.

"I am excited about the 1,200 plus professional Airmen who continue to excel beyond my expectations," said Johnson. "I am excited to have the chance to work with and help prepare them for the upcoming challenges and missions ahead."