Defenders welcome new commander Published Aug. 15, 2011 By Brian Schroeder Tinker Public Affairs, Staff Writer Tinker AFB, Okla. -- Red flags indicating a live range were blowing steadily at the 72nd Security Forces Squadron Combat Arms Range Aug. 5, as Lt. Col. Troy Roberts officially passed the responsibility of command to Lt. Col. Shawn Covault, signifying new leadership for the 72nd SFS. Col. Julie Boit, 72nd Mission Support Group commander, praised Colonel Roberts on achieving the highest possible ratings during the unit compliance inspection and also congratulated the outstanding performers and leaders within his unit. During the 2009 Operational Readiness Inspection, 72nd SFS earned a rating of "Excellent" for the squadron and air logistics center, as well as best large security forces unit in the Air Force Materiel Command. "I've only been here a short while, but in that time I've personally witnessed the exceptional leadership from Lt. Col. Troy Roberts, and I can see why he is so well respected both inside and outside of his squadron," Colonel Boit said. "As you depart this base, know that you are leaving your unit at the top of its game. Be proud of your accomplishments." The day was a day of thanksgiving, according to Colonel Roberts, who received a Meritorious Service Medal for his service at Tinker. He thanked his friends, family and even his postman, Bruce Vardaman, for being in attendance for the ceremony. Colonel Roberts said he asked his troops to do three things after he leaves: continue earning top UCI scores, make the first six months of Colonel Covault's transition as smooth as possible and to be the best large security forces unit in the Air Force for 2011. After Colonel Roberts addressed the 72nd SFS for the last time, rounds from an M2 .50-caliber machine gun mounted on a HMMWV were fired downrange as a salute from his outgoing unit. "I don't earn this (medal) or this (rank) because of what I've been involved in," Colonel Roberts said. "It's because of the performance of troops. I will absolutely miss you guys. In the future I hope I get the opportunity to serve with you down the road." The incoming commander, Colonel Covault, has served as a flight commander, operations officer and unit commander, and has three combat tours in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He said he is familiar with Tinker and his uncle and grandmother have both worked at Tinker. He also congratulated the squadron for the impressive UCI score and 17 senior Airmen who were selected to staff sergeant. "This is truly an honor to be here," he said. "I am looking forward to being part of this team and building on the strong foundation that has been established here and continuing what has been started. " Colonel Covault was also honored by an M2 firing as he saluted his new unit for the first time.