New leader takes charge of 421st ABG

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Aaron Cram
  • 421st Air Base Group Public Affairs
RAF MENWITH HILL, United Kingdom --  Col. Joseph Ogea Sr. took the reigns as the new commander of the 421st Air Base Group during a change of command ceremony presided by Col. Angela Cadwell, the 501st Combat Support Wing commander, here Aug. 7 at the Community Club.

Ogea came to the group after graduating from the Eisenhower School at the National Defense University in Washington, D.C., and has served in operational, support and staff positions at all levels. He replaces Col. Mary Boucher who retired after 25 years of service.

Shortly after taking charge of the 421st ABG, Ogea stated he is honored and thankful for his opportunity to lead and has only one promise for the men and women of the 421st.

"I want to thank you [Col. Cadwell] and the leadership of the Air Force for entrusting me with what I know is a privileged position," he said. "I'm proud to be here. I hope I represent all those that have brought me here. You don't get to do something like this without a lot of people being involved. Their contributions certainly overwhelm any I have made. Finally, I have that promise for you. I will give you my best. I will give you my all and that's all I expect from you."

To the 501st CSW commander, the members of the 421st are already giving their best. She highlighted the many accomplishments of the Airmen of the group and attributed it to Boucher's guidance.

"To the members of the 421st Air Base Group, you succeeded marvelously in the past under a great commander," Cadwell said. "Mary, the superior performance of the 421st Air Base Group is a direct reflection of your leadership. Thank you to you and your family for the service and sacrifices these past two years as you commanded our warriors. There are no words to express our gratitude and appreciation. We wish you the best in your retirement."

Cadwell also thanked the men and women of the 421st for their accomplishments and assured them their new leader is ready for command.

"Colonel Ogea comes to the unit with a distinguished record," Cadwell said. "You are fortunate enough to receive yet another phenomenal commander."