RAF Mildenhall -- The 352d Special Operations Wing welcomed Col Matthew D. Smith as their new commander at a change of command ceremony held here, July 8, 2016.
Smith assumed command from Maj. Gen Eugene Haase, Air Force Special Operations Command vice commander and presiding official, and replaced Col William G. Holt II who will move on to become the AFSOC director of operations.
In his final comments as commander, Holt regarded this assignment as the highlight of his career and praised the success of the men and women of the 352 SOW.
“During my initial change of command, I said that we would be one half the size of most wings and bring twice the capability to bear,” said Holt. “I way underestimated exactly what that would mean and how over that bar you would shoot.”
Having previously served as the vice commander at Cannon Air Force Base, New Mexico, Smith was welcomed to the 352 SOW by Special Operations Command Europe and AFSOC leadership, a formation of Airmen, his friends and his family with CV-22 Osprey and MC-130J Commando II static aircraft behind and facing the stage.
During the ceremony, Gen Haase praised the accomplishments and dedication of the men and women of the 352 SOW, past and present.
“We know that we could not provide what we do to the warfighter without all of you. The history here at the 352nd is rich, reaching back almost 75 years to second World War,” said Haase. “From here at RAF Mildenhall, to the 352nd forces deployed throughout the theater, you all carry on the unwavering professionalism and dedication that makes up our air commando ethos.”
“The 352nd sits at a strategic crossroads in our nation’s operational landscape. You provide Special Operations air power with agile combat support in Europe, Africa and central command,” Haase continued. “You strategically partner with our European allies to great effect and take the fight directly to the enemy. This is all done with the greatest of professionalism and commitment to deliver specialized air power…anytime, anyplace.”
In his welcome to Col Smith, Haase provided challenges to the incoming command team and relayed his confidence in their ability to succeed.
“Matt, you have a few challenges ahead of you. Continue the deliberate development of our air commandos as we prepare our forces for combat, build on this environment that allows our airmen and families to thrive and continue on the culture of character, dignity and respect,” said Haase. “The challenges laid out before you are not easy tasks, but we know you will rise and face them as you have before, and I have complete confidence in this team and your leadership ability. You will succeed in leading this great wing into the future.”
As commander, Smith will be charged with promoting the welfare of more than 1,200 military and civilian personnel and their family members. After providing his thanks to mentors, leadership, family and those met along the way, Smith ended his speech with a simple statement showing his new Airmen where he stands.
“To the air commandos of the 352 SOW, I am extremely proud to stand with you and honored to be in your formation," said Smith. "Thank you.”