Osan welcomes new MXG commander

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Paul Kilgallon
  • 51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office
OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  The 51st Maintenance Group welcomed a new commander during a change of command ceremony May 26 at building 732.
 
Col. Stuart Lum, who was recently the executive officer to the commander of United States Forces Japan, replaced Col. Robert West who is taking the position of Directorate of Maintenance, at Randolph AFB Texas. 

Colonel Lum was commissioned into the Air Force as a distinguished graduate through the Reserve Officers Training Corps in 1987 from Purdue University Ind. 

He is a graduate of the Air Force Aircraft Maintenance Officers course, the advanced logistics officer's course and the aircraft mishap investigation course.

Colonel Lum wears the master aircraft maintenance badge and has served in a wide variety of jobs to include Air Force Special Operations and an exchange tour with the Japan Air Self Defense Force. 

Q: Why did you join the Air Force?
A: My father was in the Air Force and I've been an Air Force dependent most of my life; it was the natural thing to do.
 
Q: What is an interesting fact about yourself?
A: I have worked with the Japan Self Defense Force and have made lasting ties with their Airmen.
 
Q: Who is your role model and why?
A: My father; he was an F-4C pilot in Vietnam and he did it right. He was a ROTC grad from UH and was a fighter pilot. 

Q: How do you feel about coming to Osan?
A: I am very excited about coming to Osan. It's my second time being stationed here. 

Q: How do you describe your leadership style?
A: Energetic, focused and disciplined. 

Q: What are your initial plans as the new commander?
A: Continue the legacy of my predecessors ... Excellence. 

Q: What are your expectations of your team?
A: Success, teamwork and camaraderie