KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- U.S. Air Force Col. Peter Kasarskis relinquished command of the Wolf Pack to U.S. Air Force Col. Kathryn Gaetke during a change of command ceremony, May 30.
Having previously served in various roles at Osan Air Base, Gaetke is well-versed in the Korean Peninsula’s unique operational environment and how to achieve strategic effects through airpower.
“I spent a lot of time in Korea, and until now, my Kunsan experience has been vicarious,” said Gaetke. “What an honor to finally be a part of the 8th Fighter Wing.”
U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. David Iverson, 7th Air Force commander, presided over the ceremony, acknowledging the great accomplishments of the wing under Kasarskis’ leadership during his time as Wolf.
“This past year, the 8th Fighter Wing demonstrated exceptional innovation and dedication: executing 7th Air Force’s first full-scale [agile combat employment] deployment, pioneering a cross-servicing program with Republic of Korea Air Force F-16s, which significantly expanded mission resilience; and securing $500,000 for critical dorm renovations, directly improving the quality of life for the entire Wolf Pack,” said Iverson. “I'm immensely proud of your accomplishments during this decade's most transformative year, driven by the Super Squadron Initiative, while preserving combat readiness.”
In Kasarskis’ final address, he thanked the Wolf Pack, noting their excellence in executing the mission.
“The biggest export for this class is the experience and roles you’ve taken,” said Kasarskis. “It’s not exactly about what we’ve accomplished, but how we executed it.”
After assuming command and officially becoming “Wolf 66,” Gaetke relayed her commitment to the Airmen of the 8th Fighter Wing ahead of her tenure.
“These next few months will bring massive changes that will affect every part of this Wing,” said Gaetke. “Wolf Pack Airmen, our commitment is to you. We’ll remain engaged to ensure that no Airman is lost in transition. We’re excited to be a part of these changes as we preserve our heritage and the legacy of the Wolf Pack; ready to execute our mission – defend the base, accept follow-on forces, and take the fight north."
Wolf 66’s term marks the first husband-and-wife duo to serve as the 8th Fighter Wing Commander, with Col Matthew Gaetke, her husband, serving as Wolf 64 from November 2023 to June 2024.