New commander takes charge of 422nd ABG

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Joel Mease
  • 501st Combat Support Wing Public Affairs
RAF CROUGHTON, United Kingdom --  The 422nd Air Base Group received a new commander during a change of command ceremony here Oct. 14.

Col. Charles Hamilton took command of the 422nd ABG, which is responsible for a diverse portfolio including support to a population of more than 4,100 people. The group's operational mission is to provide global communications support for military units in Europe, aircraft, and combatant commands within the operational theater. In addition, the group provides mission support to U.S. and NATO war fighters conducting full - spectrum flying operations for U.S. Air Forces in Europe's only bomber forward operating location, and theater munitions storage movements from USAFE's second largest conventional munitions hub.

Before the orders were published, Col. Brian Kelly, 501st Combat Support Wing commander, said few things in the Air Force stay the same, but there is one that always remains the constant ... change.

"While we will make a change on the stage today, we are confident we'll successfully manage this change," Kelly said. "The 422nd Air Base Group will continue to excel in their mission to provide world-class combat support, enabling communications (here) and enabling global strike operations at RAF Welford and RAF Fairford."

Hamiliton's previous experience working with mission partners and coalitions, commanding a number of geographically separated units while deployed, and his operational experience makes him the perfect choice to lead the 422nd ABG, Kelly said.

"Once again the Air Force has found the right person - for the right job - at the right time," Kelly said. "We are fortunate to welcome the Hamiltons to our 501st family."

The communities that make up the 422nd ABG have already left an impression on the new commander.

"I am so taken by the incredible support we have from our surrounding communities," Hamilton said. "I look forward to continuing these strong relationships, while forging personal friendships as we mutually support causes bigger than any of us."

While in command, Hamilton says his team will continue to honor the legacy of taking the fight to the enemy.

"We will never forget we are warriors providing unrivaled and uninterrupted communications and informational effects across multiple domains," Hamilton said.

"We will continue to provide global strike access, and support and provide complete regional force and mission support with the knowledge that at the end of everything we do there is an Airman, mission partner, civilian contractor and family who deserves our absolute best."