TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Brig. Gen. Jeff King assumed command of the Oklahoma City Air Logistics Complex July 1, 2020, during a change of command ceremony held in Bldg. 9001. Lt. Gen. Gene Kirkland, Air Force Sustainment Center commander, was the presiding officer.
King succeeds Brig. Gen. Chris Hill, who retired after a 29-year Air Force career.
After welcoming everyone in attendance, Kirkland noted that while the ceremony might look a little different due to COVID-19 restrictions, the significance of the transfer of command authority hasn’t changed.
Kirkland said King is the right man to ensure aircraft, propulsion and commodities maintenance, as well as software maintenance and development are well positioned for sustainment and cost-effective readiness for this nation.
“He has the perspective of the supportive warfighter, the linkage between aerospace power generated here at the OC-ALC and operational readiness in the Indo-Pacific Command (INDO-PACOM) theater,” Kirkland said. “He understands management is not always black and white, and he will succeed operating in the areas of grey.”
Speaking to his team for the first time as their commander, King said there is no higher honor than coming back to the Air Force Sustainment Center and commanding the Oklahoma City Air Logistics Complex.
“I have a passion for safety, production, and people and look forward to advancing the mission,” he said. “The OC-ALC is well-known for its ability to support the warfighter through the timely delivery of high quality aircraft, engines, components and software. I consider it a tremendous honor to be a part of the team.”
Hill had high praise for the men and women of the OC-ALC as he addressed them for the final time.
“You are the muscle and the backbone that provides safe and reliable readiness in the form and shape of aircraft, engines, aircraft components, and software to our warfighters around the globe,” said Hill. “Your determination and hard work continue to break records and redefine the Art of the Possible…I’m impressed with your efforts and humbled to be a part of your team.”