News

New mission support commander returns to his roots

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Grant Saylor
  • 446th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. --  The 446th Mission Support Group here has a new face at the top, but it's one that might be familiar to some of the 446th Airlift Wing's more seasoned veterans.

Col. Gerald Vowell took over as 446th MSG commander in September, making this his third assignment here. Colonel Vowell arrives from MacDill Air Force Base, Fla., where he was commander of the 927th MSG.

Colonel Vowell started his career here in 1975 as a traditional Reservist. During his six-year stint as a TR, he went to college, received his commission and joined the active duty Air Force, this time as an officer.

"Here I am, 15 PCS's (permanent change of stations) later," said Colonel Vowell. "I've met so many great people along the way and that's what has been so rewarding for me."

He said the 446th AW has a long history of retaining good people who contribute to mission success. To prove his point, he singled out Senior Master Sgt. Cheri Lewis, 446th Mission Support Squadron.

"I remember her from my first stint here in 1975, but she might not want me to mention that."

This is Colonel Vowell's third time as a mission support group commander. He is he looking forward to the challenges the job will present, he said, and will focus on presenting challenges to his Airmen.

"I expect them to know their jobs and to look for mentors who will make them better Airmen," said Colonel Vowell. 

As an avid runner, the commander said the new fitness program is one of the most important issues affecting the Air Force Reserve and the wing. He says leadership has to focus on educating Airmen about the cultural change in fitness standards. Distractions such as mobile devices, television, and social networking sites often keep Airmen from staying more physically active.

"We have to motivate our people to stay fit and the reality is that's a challenge," said Colonel Vowell.

Colonel Vowell said the personnel of the 446th AW have always impressed him with a great mindset and strong work ethic, so he expects the trend to continue.  In return, the former administrative specialist says he will do everything he can to help solve problems and advance the careers of his Reservists.

"I'll stand beside them when the going gets tough and lead from the front," said Colonel Vowell. Then he grinned, and added "... as long as they stay fit and get their performance reports done on time."