Colonel Wilson takes command of 72nd ABW Published June 6, 2015 By Ron Mullan Tinker Public Affairs TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- The 72nd Air Base Wing began a new era of leadership May 27 as Col. Stephanie Wilson succeeded Col. Christopher Azzano as the 72nd ABW and Installation commander. Lt. Gen. Bruce A. Litchfield, Air Force Sustainment Center, commander, was the presiding officer. "Team, we are getting a great leader. If you look at her (Colonel Wilson's) bio you will see that she has been a leader at all levels across our Air Force. You will also notice that she has a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart so we know that we have a warrior coming on board," said General Litchfield. Addressing the colonel directly, the general said: "The reputation you bring, your resume is impeccable, your leadership skills, balance what it takes to make things happen in Washington and what we need at Tinker Air Force Base are perfect. We couldn't find a better match." Colonel Wilson expressed her gratitude for the chance to lead the 72nd ABW. "General Litchfield, I feel humbled and honored for the opportunity to command the 72nd ABW. The opportunity to lead is definitely the epitome of my Air Force career and a responsibility that I don't take lightly," Colonel Wilson said. "The operational missions that we support here at the 72nd (ABW) play a pivotal role in supporting our national defense both here and abroad." Colonel Wilson then talked about expectations for herself and the wing. "Team Tinker, what you can expect from me is respect, hard work, dedication and unwavering devotion. I know I can expect the same from you. You are professionals, who take pride in what you do. You are efficient because you have to be, and I know you care about the mission. I truly believe that together we can achieve 'Art of the Possible' results." Colonel Wilson's previous assignment was as the Senior Military Assistant to the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Installations, Environment and Energy, Washington D.C. During the ceremony, General Litchfield also took the opportunity to say a few words about Col. Azzano and the impact he had on the wing and all of Team Tinker. "This place has never been clicking better than it is right now, whether it's through mission, whether it's through taking care of people, through outreach to the community or the way we get it done for our Air Force," said the general. "In difficult times leadership makes all the difference and you have made a huge difference. It is clearly better than when you came, and great things have happened. Thank you very much" In recognition of these accomplish-ments, Colonel Azzano was presented the Legion of Merit, first oak leaf cluster. Speaking to the wing for the last time, he said: "A big thanks to the 72nd ABW 'Wildcatters.' The state of the wing and of Tinker two years ago versus where it is today has happened because of your efforts," said Colonel Azzano. "You really set the standard. You powered through Sequestration which included furloughs and force shaping of both military and civilians. You hit it out of the park during AFMC's first Unit Effectiveness Inspection, setting the standard for the command. I am very proud of you. Keep up the fantastic work." Colonel Azzano moves on to Eglin Air Force Base where he will command the 96th Test Wing.