Recruiting squadron welcomes new leader Published July 23, 2008 By Danielle Gregory Tinker Public Affairs TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla., -- Lt. Colonel Javier Casanova assumed command of the 349th Recruiting Squadron from Lt. Colonel Frank Alberga on July 18. "It's been a great two years. A lot of what came out of this squadron is not because of me it's because of the recruiters and the staff that I have out there that have done outstanding work," said Colonel Alberga. Colonel Alberga will be continuing his Air Force career in Washington D.C. Colonel Casanova comes to Tinker from Kadena Air Force Base, Japan, where he served as the Operations Officer, 33rd Rescue Squadron. He is a command pilot with over 2400 flying hours in three helicopters. As the new commander, Colonel Casanova will be responsible for commanding the 349th RS. The mission of the 349th RCS is to recruit sufficient, high-quality civilian candidates to satisfy AF manpower requirements in all program areas. The squadron's responsibilities cover four states and consist of approximately 106 military and civilian personnel that help successfully execute the mission of the squadron. "It is my honor to stand here today as your commander. Thank you for this great opportunity to command the men and women of the 349th," said Colonel Casanova.