189th Airlift Wing gains new commander

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Ian Caple
  • 189th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE, Ark. --  A former 50th Airlift Squadron pilot now commands the 189th Airlift Wing after a change of command ceremony Sunday.

Col. Steve Eggensperger assumed command from retiring Col. Jim Summers. Colonel Eggensperger was previously the 189th Operations Group commander and at one time a pilot in the 50th AS in the 1990's.

"I look forward to continuing to work with you as together we shape the future of C-130 training and combat airlift," said Colonel Eggensperger. "As we begin this journey, my focus will be on our people and our mission. I intend to maintain strict standards of integrity that the people of this great nation expect of their military forces."

Brig. Gen. Dwight Balch, Arkansas Air National Guard commander, spoke of the significance of the ceremony and what lay ahead for the wing.

"Today marks another milestone in the history of the 189th Airlift Wing and the Arkansas Air National Guard," said General Balch. "In addition to the change of command, we'll be dedicating a new facility at our campus right here at the 189th.

"I believe change in leadership can be healthy for any unit because it often compels everyone to reexamine themselves in their role and contribution to the mission. Many times the change that takes place will drive a unit to an even higher level of performance," the general added.

General Balch began by acknowledging the 2011 National Guard Association John J. James Flight Safety trophy the wing earned for the second time in the past three years.

"Safety is our No. 1 priority. This unit has a history of safety consciousness," said General Balch. "This wing's depth and breadth of experience continues to perform at a very high level."

General Balch went on to talk about the many challenges faced by the Arkansas ANG during Colonel Summers' command. ANG Airmen participated in several deployments in support of Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom.

189th AW members supported Arkansas communities with state emergency response in the face of recent winter weather, tornados and flooding in places such as Clinton, Vilonia, East End and Cotton Plant and other neighboring communities.

"What really touched me more than anything was how the communities reached back ... and made an impact on our Airmen's lives," said General Balch.

Colonel Eggensperger thanked the Airmen of the 189th AW for their dedication.

"Thanks to the Airmen of the 189th AW for setting the tradition of excellence and building for the future successes of the Arkansas ANG," he said. "What we do could only be done because of you."