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51st MSG welcomes new commander

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Candy Knight
  • 51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  The 51st Mission Support Group welcomed its new commander during a ceremony May 13 when Col. Roland Van Deventer assumed command of the 51st MSG from Col. Marilyn Howe.

Colonel Van Deventer is no stranger to the 51st MSG as he was the 51st MSG's military deputy commander since his arrival in 2007.

As commander, he provides leadership and direction for six separate squadrons totaling more than 2,400 personnel, supporting the Air Force's most permanently forward-deployed wing, a numbered air force and 20 tenant units.

Furthermore, he provides guidance for maintaining more than 1,100 real property facilities and $1.7 billion real property replacement value.

He also oversees an operations and maintenance and construction budget in excess of $200 million and as while as an air base defense mission, which includes the largest security forces squadron in the Pacific.

During the ceremony, Colonel Van Deventer thanked Col. Jon Norman, 51st Fighter Wing commander, for the opportunity to lead the 51st MSG.

He also thanked Colonel Howe for her dedication and guidance during her two years as 51st MSG commander.

"On behalf of the men and women of the 51st MSG, thank you for your leadership," he said. "Best wishes to you on your new assignment."

Colonel Howe departs Osan for the U.S. Northern Command, Peterson Air Force Base, Colo.

Colonel Van Deventer told his Airmen that he wants them to focus on three things during his tenure.

"The first thing is the mission and providing combat support to Team Osan," he said. "The second thing is taking care of the Air Force's most precious asset - our people. Our people are the reason our Air Force is the best in the world. Finally, I want you to focus on teamwork because teamwork is the cornerstone of every professional organization's success."

Colonel Norman also thanked Colonel Howe for her hard work.

"You've done a phenomenal job," he said. "This is a challenging job that touches every operation on this base. It is a daunting task, but you helped keep the wing functioning and you did an outstanding job."

Colonel Howe then address the audience, thanking each and every squadron that served under her command.

"I want to thank you for what you do for countries, both the U.S. and Republic of Korea," she said. "Your services does matter."