Passing the torch: 501st CSW welcomes new commander

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Jarad A. Denton
  • 501st Combat Support Wing Public Affairs
RAF ALCONBURY, England --  Since its relocation to RAF Alconbury, England, in 2007, five U.S. Air Force officers have commanded the 501st Combat Support Wing.

During a ceremony on base, May 28, Col. Kevin Cullen became the sixth, when he assumed command of the nation's only combat support wing from Col. Angela Cadwell.

Regarded as Pathfinders, Airmen of the 501st CSW built a legacy as pioneers of new ideas and radical solutions - a tradition Cullen said he wishes to build upon.

"Together, we are bounded by professionalism, inspired by innovation and fueled by Pathfinder pride," the commander said. "With those three pillars, our potential is limitless."

Poised to ensure three air base groups, co-located between the United Kingdom and Norway, Cullen said he is committed to ensuring the groups and mission partners are resourced, sustained, trained and equipped to provide exemplary mission support to U.S. and NATO warfighters.

"We provide our country and Allies a set of unique, diverse and critical strategic capabilities," Cullen said. "My challenge to individuals, squadrons, groups and the wing is to continue to light the way into new and amazing territory."

Presiding over the ceremony, Lt. Gen. Darryl Roberson, 3rd Air Force and 17th Expeditionary Air Force commander, placed complete confidence in Cullen's ability to continue the wing's path of excellence.

"It's a perfect fit," Roberson said. "Col. Cullen is right where he needs to be."

Serving as the critical entry and relay point for cyber activities across the U.S. European, Africa and Central Commands, as well as the U.S. State Department, the 501st CSW would not enjoy its stellar mission success rate without a highly trained team of professionals, Cullen said.

"Your dedication to the mission, and each other, are the fundamental building blocks of our combat capability," Cullen said. "We are the Pathfinders, and we light the way for all others to follow."