A new Wolf leads the Pack

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Michael Hunsaker
  • 8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea --  Kunsan welcomed Col. David Shoemaker as the new 8th Fighter Wing commander during a change of command ceremony on May 25, 2017.

Lt. Gen. Thomas Bergeson, 7th Air Force commander, presided over the ceremony and took the opportunity to welcome Shoemaker as the newest leader of the Wolf Pack, while thanking his family in attendance. He also thanked Col. Todd Dozier, former 8th FW commander, for his leadership during the past year.

“The Wolf Pack is at the bedrock of the air component’s success and strength,” said Bergeson. “That strength is demonstrated through your incredible achievements over the past 12 months, under the leadership of Wolf 56, Colonel Todd Dozier, to whom we bid a fond farewell with today’s change of command.”

Bergeson went on to present Dozier with the Legion of Merit, and afterwards, Dozier expressed his gratitude toward the Wolf Pack for their dedication and commitment to the 8th FW mission.

“Wolf Pack, over the past year, you’ve done some wonderful and amazing things,” said Dozier. ”We talk about the legend that is the Wolf Pack, and arguably, we are the most storied wing in our Air Force. You have paid it forward in making improvements that will ensure Kunsan is a better place for our successors. You have answered your nation’s call and served well; thank you to each of you for your service.”

Dozier gave his final salute to the Wolf Pack and relinquished command to Shoemaker, who comes to Kunsan from Luke Air Force Base, Ariz., where he was the vice wing commander of the 56th Fighter Wing.

As Wolf 57, Shoemaker begins his third tour at Kunsan after having served here from 2005 - 2006 as the 8th Operations Group Standardization and Evaluation chief and 2010 - 2011 as 35th Fighter Squadron director of operations.

“I’m honored today to return to the Republic of Korea and to have the opportunity to once again join the greatest fighter wing in the Air Force,” said Shoemaker. “Our task is not easy. We stand on the border of democracy and tyranny, between freedom and oppression. Our hope is for peace on the peninsula from our mere presence, but ultimately, I know that you’re ready, and if called upon to practice our craft, may God have mercy on the Wolf Pack’s prey.”