TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- Command of the 601st Air Operations Center and the 101st Air Operations Group, collectively referred to as America’s AOC, changed hands in a combined change of command ceremony held here on April 13, 2018.
The change in leadership was symbolized by an age old tradition of passing of unit flags, or colors, as Col. Greg Krane assumed command of the 101st AOG from Col. Michael Valle. The surrendering of the 101st AOG flag signified Krane’s assumption of command and acceptance of his new position. The Florida Air National Guard Commander, Brig. Gen. Brian Simpler, presided over the ceremony.
“Colonel Valle has done an incredible job leading these Airmen,” said Simpler. “To Colonel Krane, I charge you to take care these Airmen, lead them well, and make sure they are trained and prepared in every way for when the next challenge presents itself and our team is called upon.”
Prior to becoming the 101st AOG commander, Krane served as the Continental U.S. NORAD Region – First Air Force (Air Forces Northern) Deputy Chief of Staff, and in several positions throughout the AOC, including the Chief of the Combat Operations Division, Chief of the Intelligence and Reconnaissance Division, and Chief of the Strategy Division.
“I would like to thank Colonel Valle for his friendship and mentorship throughout the years; he has truly left a solid foundation at the AOG,” said Krane. “To the men and women of the AOC and First Air Force, I’ve been blessed to be a part of both of these outstanding organizations for most of my career and I know I would not be standing here in front of you today without you’re professionalism and dedication.”
Another change in leadership immediately followed as Col. John Ferry relinquished command of the 601st AOC with the passing of the colors to Valle. The CONR-1AF (AFNORTH) Commander, Lt. Gen. R. Scott Williams, presided over the ceremony.
“I’m honored and greatly humbled to continue serving the men and women of this organization as the next AOC commander,” said Valle. “I’m extremely grateful to have served alongside Colonel Ferry and hope to build upon the solid groundwork he established through his leadership. To my AOG family, thank you for your outstanding support, I know Colonel Krane will do incredible things as the next commander of this unit.”
Prior to serving as the 601st AOC commander, Valle served in several positions throughout the AOC, including Chief of the Combat Operations Division and Chief of the Combat Plans Division.
Ferry served as the 101st AOG commander prior to serving as the 601st AOC commander and previously held several positions throughout the AOC, including Chief of the Strategy Division, Chief of the Mission Support Division, and Deputy Chief of the Combat Plans Division.
The 101st AOG is a Florida Air National Guard unit that provides the manning for the 601st AOC to fulfill its critical mission of defending the homeland. The 101st AOG was officially activated July 1, 2009.
The 601st AOC is responsible for detecting, deterring, defending and if necessary, defeating any aviation threat to the citizens of the continental United States and to U.S. critical infrastructure.
For additional information visit facebook.com/AmericasAOC or twitter.com/1stAF.