RAF ALCONBURY, United Kingdom -- Airmen of the 501st Combat Support Wing welcomed a new commander in a change of command ceremony here today.

Col. Brian Kelly assumed command of the 501st CSW from Col. Timothy Cashdollar, who is leaving to become the Director of Manpower, Personnel and Services at Pacific Air Forces. Colonel Kelly comes to the wing after serving as Commander, 31st Mission Support Group, Aviano Air Base, Italy.

Lt. Gen. Frank Gorenc, 3rd Air Force commander, presided over the ceremony. He spoke about the importance of change within the Air Force and the common bonds all Airmen share.

"The smooth transition of commanders demonstrates an inherent strength of our Air Force," the general said. "These seamless leadership transitions are only possible when people know the mission and share common values."

Before giving command to Colonel Kelly, General Gorenc spoke about his expectations and outlook for the wing.

"The challenges are enormous, but I know you are eager and confident," General Gorenc said. "You should be confident because you will have the help of the men and women of the 501st - who are simply superb."

After assuming command, Colonel Kelly thanked General Gorenc for the opportunity to command the wing and said he would meet the general's expectations.

"I fully recognize the magnitude of the responsibility I've been handed," Colonel Kelly said. "While I cannot guarantee you the exact results, I can guarantee that you will get my absolute best, and I will work even harder to earn my place as the leader of this great wing."

While sharing a story about his parents and the impact they had on his life, Colonel Kelly spoke about his leadership philosophy.

"My parents came from simple beginnings, but provided great support and love and worked hard each day to make a better life for their family," the colonel said. "Their example has always provided me a sense of purpose, which I continue to lean on today."

Eager to get to work, Colonel Kelly reserved his final words for the Airmen of his new command.

"I stand before you today truly humbled by the honor of becoming a part of your great wing," Colonel Kelly said. "To have the opportunity to join any great team is special, but to join a team like the 501st, a diverse team, 100 percent mission focused, who gets to work side by side with our Allies in providing world-class combat support; that makes being a part of this team a true once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."