Col. Wesselman takes over MSG Published July 31, 2009 By Brandice J. Armstrong Tinker Public Affairs TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Col. Herbert Wesselman succeeded Col. James Eilers as the 72nd Mission Support Group commander July 23. Held at the Tinker Club's west parking lot, approximately 300 guests -- including two squadrons standing in formation and three military working dogs with their handlers -- attended the morning event. Col. Allen Jamerson, 72nd Air Base Wing commander, presided over the ceremony. "Herb, I know you have what it takes to take the 72nd MSG to the next level of excellence," said Colonel Jamerson. "They are a fantastic group of women and men and they will give you everything you expect from them. I'm honored to extend the flag of command to you and I look forward to all of the great things I know you and your group will achieve." Colonel Wesselman arrived at Tinker from Fort Lesley J. McNair, an Army base in Washington, D.C., where he was the director of communications and information for the joint force headquarters at the national capital region. In his 23-year Air Force career, Colonel Wesselman has held several communication and information assignments that often led to leadership positions. "The opportunity to command is a great honor ... it is also humbling to be selected for the command," said Colonel Wesselman. "Colonel Jamerson, thank you for selecting me to be the next commander of the 72nd Mission Support Group. I'll do my best to balance the mission and the mission accomplishments while taking care of our nation's greatest resource -- the sons and daughters of our nation." The 72nd MSG provides force support, contracting, force protection, logistics readiness and communications support for 26,000 Tinker personnel, three flying missions and 45 other Tinker mission partners, said Colonel Jamerson. Colonel Eilers, who led the group since 2007, retired after 33 years in the Air Force. "We have to say thanks for everything you've done for Tinker Air Force Base," Colonel Jamerson said. "You can leave this command and [end] your career knowing you gave your absolute best and this group and our Air Force are much better off because of it." Colonel Eilers said he enjoyed his time at Tinker and he will not soon forget it. "The past two years has been an awesome experience for me and I'm so proud of our accomplishments," Colonel Eilers said. "It has truly been an honor and privilege to serve as the 72nd Mission Support Group commander. I will always remember my squadron commanders and directors for their extraordinary leadership abilities and support to get the job done."