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Lt. Col. Tyrell Mayfield takes command of 72nd SFS

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  • By Daisy Grant, Staff Writer

squadron,” Vitantonio said.

Described by Vitantonio as the “eyes and ears of base,” the 72nd SFS defends the base by checking I.D.s at the gates, handling military working dogs and more.

Mayfield received a bachelor of science degree from Illinois State University in 1997, and more recently graduated from Army War College this year and Air War College in 2016.

His previous assignments have included the roles of a wing anti-terrorism officer in the 1st Special Operations Wing, Hurlburt Field, Florida, and as an operations officer of the 8th Security Forces Squadron at Kunsan Air Force Base, South Korea, among others.

During his tenure in the military, Mayfield has also been awarded the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Bronze Star and other major decorations.

During the ceremony, Mayfield said it is an “honor and privilege” to assume the position and looks forward to leading the squadron.

He discussed his expectations for the Airmen, specifically for every action to be worthy of and advance the trust of U.S. citizens.

Mayfield requested Airmen remain mission-focused professionally and to the best of their abilities, lead by example.

He also discussed what can be expected of him.

“I am a deliberate and purposeful decision-maker. I will act in the best interest of this squadron, our wing, our Air Force and our nation. I will rely on your expertise and council to make decisions, and I will need your help,” Mayfield said.

Quick took command of the squadron in October 2016 and will be moving to the position of deputy for the 27th Special Operations Mission Support Group for Cannon Air Force base in New Mexico.

Before he relinquished command, Quick thanked those who have helped him during his time at Tinker Air Force Base, describing the position as the most challenging and rewarding period of his Air Force career.

“While today is a sad day for me knowing it is my last day as commander of this great unit, it is also a day to look back and feel a great deal of pride in a successful command,” Quick said.