388th Fighter Wing changes command

HILL AIR FORCE BASE — Hundreds of airmen from the 388th Fighter Wing will report to a new commander when they return home from Iraq tonight.

Col. Robert Beletic took over command of Hill's active F-16 fighter jet wing in a formal change-of-command ceremony at Hill Wednesday.

About 250 airmen from the 34th Fighter Squadron were stationed at Iraq's Balad Air Base since deployment in January. Another 50 airmen will return in a few days, said Capt. Monica Bland, chief of public affairs for the 388th.

Pilots in the 34th Fighter Squadron's "Rude Rams" maintained security and stability in Iraq by providing close air support for coalition ground forces, Bland said. The airmen are scheduled to arrive home at midnight tonight.

Beletic replaces Col. Charlie Lyon, who has been nominated for promotion to brigadier general, pending Senate confir- mation.

"Thanks to Col. Lyon's leadership and your courage and commitment, men and women from the 388th are securing freedom for millions in Iraq and Afghanistan," Beletic told airmen, civic leaders and other distinguished guests at the ceremony.

Beletic steps into command at a changing time for the 388th. In the next year and a half, the 388th and Hill's 419th reserve fighter unit will combine.

Experienced mechanics and pilots with thousands of hours of flight time from the 419th will team up with the 388th to create a "stronger, combat-ready" force.

"We will all become stronger over the next year and a half as we integrate," Beletic said. "These two great wings will become something better and more combat capable.

Beletic said one of his main goals is to continue to foster a positive relationship with the community around Hill.

"It's important for the guys who are deployed that back home their families are being taken care of," he said. "We are fortunate for the unwavering support and hospitality that our local community provides."

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