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New commander heads 848th SCMG

  • Published
  • By John Parker
  • Staff Writer
TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  Col. William "Will" P. Roberts assumed command of the 848th Supply Chain Management Group in a June 25 ceremony that included the awarding of the Legion of Merit to former 848th leader Col. Rod D. Bloker.

Frank Washburn, director of the 448th Supply Chain Management Wing, said Colonel Roberts has "an incredibly wide range" of logistics experience, which includes several squadron commands, Air Staff assignments and combat convoy duty in Iraq as commander of the 586th Expeditionary Logistics Readiness Squadron.

The colonel was most recently director of the Supplier Operations Directorate with the Defense Logistics Agency Aviation, Defense Supply Center, in Richmond, Va. He served at Tinker from 1998 to 2001 as the Logistics Plans Flight commander and maintenance supervisor with the 552nd Logistics Support Squadron.

"I'm certain that your vast logistics experience and proven leadership will take the 848th to new levels of supply chain performance," Mr. Washburn said. "One of Colonel Roberts' leadership beliefs is 'people first, mission always,' and, Will, the warfighter is counting on the supply chain wing to deliver and the 848th to deliver."

The colonel said taking command of the 848th SCMG is a "highlight of my Air Force career."

"I look forward to becoming a member of your team and serving with you as we continue your established tradition of excellence," Colonel Roberts said.
Mr. Washburn praised Colonel Bloker's two years as commander.

"Colonel Bloker, it was an honor to serve with you," Mr. Washburn said. "I've learned so much about leadership from you. I truly have. It's because of your expert leadership we're a more effective supply chain wing focused on what really matters, and that's generating combat capability through sustained warfighter support."

The colonel's Legion of Merit citation credited him for setting "a new standard for supply support to the United States Air Force." Colonel Bloker will become commander of DLA Aviation at Warner Robins Air Logistics Complex, Ga. 

"As I leave today, I'm in even more awe at what we do," Colonel Bloker said. "This is your Legion of Merit, and I'm honored to wear it on your behalf. Air power starts right here."