Incoming wing commander shares vision of readiness, Unrivaled Wingman concept

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Amaani Lyle
  • 459th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs Office
ANDREWS AIR FORCE BASE, Md. --  As the 459th Air Refueling Wing faces inspections, deployments and high operations tempo daily tasks, transitioning wing leadership still emphasizes mission readiness and accomplishment, the wing's new vice commander said.

In a relatively short stint as vice commander, Col. William T. Cahoon, primes to take the reins as wing commander Aug. 1, following the upcoming departure of current wing commander Col. Stayce D. Harris. Colonel Harris moves on to Headquarters Air Mobility Command, Scott Air Force Base, Ill., as Mobilization Assistant to the Strategic Plans, Requirements and Programs Director.

Colonel Cahoon, who takes the guidon Sunday during the wing change of command ceremony, said his responsibility as an Unrivaled Wingman lies far beyond the parameters of his job here.

"If a unit can't accomplish its mission, and is not ready to go, then nothing else matters," Colonel Cahoon said. "If the US military can't do its job, can't keep the 'wolf away from the door,' then our families aren't safe, our way of life is not secure and dependable, and it won't matter how safely we conduct our jobs."

While Colonel Cahoon admits his vision for the 459th ARW will become more defined as he meets wing people and learns unit-specific practices, he asserts the learning curve is about taking responsibility at the individual level.

"Contributing to job one -- our job -- is about the personal responsibility to our nation," the vice commander said. "It's in lockstep with our commitment as Unrivaled Wingmen who know their job and its responsibilities and are ready to take the lead at any time."

The Richmond, Ind., native said some of his most rewarding assignments have been serving as group commander in Baghdad, Iraq, and Kandahar, Afghanistan. He also seems to be taking his own leadership advice.

"Whether at the beginning or end of your military career, I believe in concentrating on the job you have, don't worry about the next one," the colonel said. "If you do your best there and increase your value to the organization, you'll create opportunities for yourself that allow you to contribute more at every step in your career. Always take opportunities to lead."

Colonel Cahoon and his wife of 37 years, Vicki, have two sons who have both served in the military. He said that he and Vicki are both "thrilled, proud, and honored" to be here.

Read more about Colonel Cahoon at his biography by visiting the 459th ARW Web page http://www.459arw.afrc.af.mil/library/biographies/bio.asp?id=11371.