459 ARW welcomes new commander, bids farewell to former leader

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Amber Russell
  • 459th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
The 459th Air Refueling Wing held a change of command and retirement ceremony in the fuel cell hangar here Mar. 5.

During the ceremony, Col. Russell A. Muncy officially took command of the 459 ARW from Col. James M. Allman, who retired from the Air Force after more than 26 years of military service.

Maj. Gen. Eric W. Crabtree, Fourth Air Force commander, served as the officiating officer for both the change of command and retirement ceremonies.

"The wing has done nothing but shine and excel under the leadership of Colonel Allman," General Crabtree said. "Colonel Allman brought with him a set of skills and experience by doing all the right things to make himself valuable to the Air Force and Air Force Reserve. Those of us who have worked with him know what a valuable asset we are losing when he retires, but we now have Colonel Muncy coming in seeking the same level of support."

Colonel Muncy has served as vice commander for the 459 ARW since June 2010 and has been a member of the wing since August 2007. During his time as vice commander, Colonel Muncy has overseen numerous deployments, mobilizations and inspections. He is now entering his new role as the 459 ARW prepares for an upcoming Operational Readiness Inspection by the Air Mobility Command Inspector General. During a speech at the change of command ceremony, Colonel Muncy spoke about what lies ahead for the Reserve Airmen.

"I am honored to have the opportunity to command your wing and confident that we will face and overcome all the challenges before us," Colonel Muncy said. "In order to continue to project U.S. capabilities and protect our interests, more mobilizations and deployments are on the horizon. Also, as we prepare for the 2012 Operational Readiness Inspection, I ask for your continued perseverance, dedication and support," Colonel Muncy said.

Immediately following the change of command, Colonel Allman's retirement ceremony took place. As part of the ceremony, a musical rendition of Bette Midler's "The Wind Beneath My Wings" was performed by duo Chris and Diane Jones, in dedication to Colonel Allman's wife, as well as to 459 ARW Airmen. Colonel Allman gave a final speech to the wing before the retirement ceremony came to a close and related to the song that was sung.

"There is no way I could have soared with the eagles or have eagles on my uniform without your support, encouragement or trust in me as your wing commander," Colonel Allman said. "We achieved incredible things together. We've been deployed all over the world serving, supporting and defending our nation, thank you for your service, Citizen Airmen." Colonel Allman said in his closing speech.