Wolf Pack deactivates 8th MOS

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Jonathan Fowler
  • 8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  The 8th Fighter Wing bid farewell to the 8th Maintenance Operations Squadron during a deactivation ceremony at Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea, May 31, 2013.

The 8th MOS, like other similar units across the Air Force, was realigned with its personnel and responsibilities transferred to other squadrons within the 8th Maintenance Group. This is part of an U.S. Air Force effort to meet new budgetary constraints.

Col. Ray Lindsay, 8th MXG commander, expressed his regret at losing an excellent squadron, but said the MXG will support former MOS Airmen joining the new duty sections.

"The Air Force had it right by establishing the [8th MOS]," Lindsay said. "[but], know that under the leadership of the MXG, you will be loved, supported and taken care of equal to or better than what you've experienced to date."

Lindsay also asked his re-aligned group members to continue to excel as members of the maintenance team.

"I ask you to remain forever vigilant and continue to seek success after success in 'defending the base,' 'accepting follow-on forces' and 'taking the fight north.'"

During the deactivation speech, Maj. John Groff, former 8th MOS commander, explained the diverse history of the 8th MOS, which was originally known as the 8th Station Complement Squadron. It then became the 8th Logistics Support Squadron and finally as the 8th MOS. He went on to expressed his admiration for the men and women who served under his command in the MOS.

"I am extremely proud of my Airmen," said Groff. "It's been a tough year but your spirits never faltered. I thank you for giving me your best and [know] all the sacrifices you made. I will never forget you."

Groff will be the last "Knight," the call sign given to commanders of the 8th MOS.