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848th SCMG welcomes new commander

  • Published
  • By Brandice J. O'Brien
  • Tinker Public Affairs
TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  Col. Rod Bloker is the new 848th Supply Chain Management Group commander.

Standing in front of approximately 100 members from the local and Tinker community during the July 10 ceremony, he accepted command from Col. Tim Henke, 448th Supply Chain Management Wing vice director. Colonel Bloker replaces Col. Ray Mijares.

Colonel Bloker came to Tinker from the 86th Logistics Readiness Group at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, where he served as the deputy commander. Prior to his last assignment, Colonel Henke said he has an extensive and diverse career in missiles and logistics, which makes him the right person for the job.

"When I looked at Colonel Bloker's records, I was literally blown away," said Colonel Henke. "He's done amazing things for some very tough bosses out there ... He comes highly recommended and we are happy to have you here, Rod."

Colonel Bloker said he is equally excited to be at Tinker and looks forward to leading the 848th SCMG.

"To the members of the 848th Supply Chain Management Group, thank you for welcoming us as part of your team. We are excited to be here. From the moment I read Colonel Henke's first email, I knew I was coming to a first-class team with global impact and strategic significance," he said. "I am absolutely fascinated by you and the mission. I look forward to working with you and meeting the challenges of today's Air Force."

Colonel Mijares left Tinker for an assignment in National Capital Region in Washington, D.C., where he will work for the deputy assistant secretary of Defense, Defense Continuity and Crisis Management. At the ceremony, he received the Meritorious Service Medal - seventh oak leaf cluster.

Colonel Henke said Colonel Mijares has an outstanding reputation, accomplished several great feats and said his performance can be compared to that of Rumble and Scott Brooks, mascot and head coach of the NBA's Oklahoma City Thunder, respectively.

"Ray is the biggest cheerleader in the 848th SCMG. He always behind the scenes firing up the crowd and taking care of everybody," Colonel Henke said. "He's really a combination of the head coach and cheerleader rolled up in one. That's what makes him a really special leader."

Colonel Mijares said he has enjoyed his time in the 848th SCMG and thanked his team for a job well done.

"I want all of you to know, you made me feel welcome and part of the team," said Colonel Mijares. "Thank you for your professionalism; you will be remembered. It has been an honor serving with all of you. Thank you, thank you, thank you. Take care everyone, God bless all of you and God bless the United States of America."