Col. Browne takes command of the 366th Fighter Wing

Friday, September 7, 2007
Col. James S. Brown, the new 366th Figher Wing commander, addresses his troops for the first time.

Col. James S. Browne formally took command of the 366th Fighter Wing, replacing Col. Anthony Rock, during special ceremonies on base Friday.

The wing's flag was formally passed to Col. Browne by Lt. Gen. Norman R. Seip, 12th Air Force commander, who praised Rock for his leadership during his tour as "Gunfighter 1." Besides numerous "historic" deployments of his forces, including the first F-15 unit to be deployed to Afghanistan, the base also won the Commander's Excellence Award as the best base in the Air Force during Rock's tenure.

Calling his command of the wing "the best 15 months of my professional career," Rock thanked the officers, NCOs and airmen of the 366th Fighter wing for their efforts during his tour, as well as the support of the local community.

Lt. Gen. Norman Seip presents the 366th Fighter Wing flag to new wing commander Col. James S. Browne, while outgoing commander Col. Anthony Rock looks on.

Browne, who said he was looking forward to working with the Gunfighters and the community, said his primary focus would be on continuing the mission of the wing to fly and fight against the nation's enemies, to emphasize the teamwork of all personnel, family members, contractors and the community, "and to make sure that we always do everything right, even when someone isn't looking."

At least five generals and retired generals were on hand witness the change of command, as well as a large number of Col. Browne's family.

Beside the praise Seip gave Rock, he also presented him with the Legion of Merit for his "outstanding leadership" and accomplishments.

More details on the change of command ceremony can be found in next week's Mountain Home News.

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