OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --
The 694th Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Group welcomed a familiar face during a change of command ceremony June 28, here.
During the ceremony, Col. Andrew Torelli relinquished command of the group to Col. James Mock, who returned to Osan after 30 years.
Living here in 1984 as a teenager, he worked at the base gym during the summer and bagged groceries on the weekends while his father, retired Col. James W. Mock, commanded the 6903rd Electronic Security Group, the predecessor to today’s 303rd Intel Squadron.
“I will be the group commander for the same unit my father was when it was a group in the 1980s,” said Mock.
He participated in many cultural experiences Osan Airmen take part in today, such as a tour of the Demilitarized Zone.
“[My family and I] traveled extensively around the country, and I came to appreciate the culture and deep history Korea had to offer,” he said.
His military roots began in Korea where he saw the world in a different light at his age.
“The experience made me realize the world wasn’t necessarily a nice place and the role the military played in security and stability,” he said.
Now that he commands the group, Mock seeks to live up to his father’s legacy that directly contributed to the defense of the Korean Peninsula.
“I know firsthand the daily impact you are making here on the peninsula,” said Mock to the Airmen of the 694th ISRG during his ceremony. “It’s an honor and privilege to be your commander and take on new challenges with you.”
As well as being excited for his new command, Mock said he’s elated to share his childhood with his two sons.
“I am looking forward to them getting to experience a different culture and perspective on the world,” he said. “They will roam many of the same streets and places I did 30 years ago. As a family we look forward to experiencing all Korea has to offer.”
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