New 11th Wing commander takes the reins of Bolling Air Force Base

Published Dec. 1, 2009
By Tech. Sgt. Chyenne Adams
11th Wing Public Affairs

BOLLING AIR FORCE BASE, D.C. -- "Sir, I assume command," were the first words heard from the new 11th Wing commander during an assumption of command ceremony today at the Bolling Air Force Base.

Col. Cedric George, a 22-year Air Force veteran, said these words while being handed the "Chief's Own" guidon from Maj. Gen. Darrell Jones, Air Force District of Washington commander, and presiding officer for the Dec. 1 ceremony.

Colonel George's last assignment was as Pacific Air Forces Air Force Smart Operations 21 director, Hickam Air Base, Hawaii. He's also been in leadership positions at the unit, major command, and Air Staff levels.

"I must admit I'm slightly envious of (Colonel George) today," said General Jones. "I always thought commanding the 11th Wing would be one of the coolest jobs ever... What better job than one representing every Airman in the entire Air Force."

The general went on to explain the magnitude of that worldwide representation with facts about the U.S. Air Force Honor Guard and the U.S. Air Force Band, the two largest units on Bolling.

"Not only does Bolling provide precise musical and ceremonial engagement, superior customer service and expeditionary response... this wing also provides support to more than 48,000 Airmen and their families in 859 units spread across 34 states and 94 countries around the world," said the AFDW commander.

The two-star went on to discuss what he expected out of the new commander.

"The job of a commander is to set the vision for his organization," he said. "We know where the 11th Wing has been, and I have great faith in where it's going under the helm of Colonel George's leadership and expertise."

When Colonel George spoke to the crowded room, he thanked everyone who had a part in the ceremony and his transition from Hickam to Bolling.

"In this Year of the Air Force Family, I can think of no better representation than what we've experienced this last month," he said. "Simply put, the George family is overwhelmed by your heartfelt welcome and outpouring of friendship and support during our transition. Everyone should be so fortunate as to be a part of this Air Force family. (My wife) Liz and I are humbled and blessed to be part of this team."

The new wing commander went on to discuss his expectations and standards for the 11th Wing. He called his standards "simple" and said he expects all Airman to do three things - have personal and professional discipline 24 hours a day, seven days a week; perform assigned duties to meet the wing's mission using 'excellence on every task'; and have a positive and professional attitude through every challenge.

He also said "Team Bolling" must look for smarter ways to deliver superior customer service, precise musical and ceremonial engagement, and enable expeditionary worldwide response.

"There are no solo acts in leadership," said the colonel. "I look forward to partnering with our 27 DoD tenant agencies as we deliver full-spectrum customer service to the thousands of (active-duty, Guard, Reserve, family members, civilians, retirees, and more) in the National Capital Region."

Colonel George explained that this total force was his vision for the men and women of the 11th Wing.

"This is our road ahead... and I embrace the opportunity to travel it with you," said the newly-minted wing commander. "Liz and I look forward to getting to know each of you and spending time with all of our new Bolling family."