Support group commander reigns change

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Sean P. Houlihan
  • 8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  A distinguished graduate with honors from the Air Force Academy assumed command of the 8th Mission Support Group today during a ceremony in Hangar 3 in front of the group's Airmen.

  "Our job in the Wolf Pack's 8th Mission Support Group is serious and every one needs to be focused, fully trained and ready to go to war," Col. Timothy "Falcon" Sakulich said. "Personal readiness and unit readiness (are keys for our three tier mission) -- to defend our base, receive forces and take the fight to the aggressors. These are awesome responsibilities. Do not underestimate the importance of what we are doing here."

  During his speech he said the group doesn't just support the fight but are a integral part of it and the Operations Readiness Inspection in April demonstrated that.

  Whether it was communications providing information and airfield systems, security forces with a line of defense, civil engineers with infrastructure, logistics readiness with full spectrum support, mission support ensures Airmen are able to accomplish the mission and they have services that enhance their esprit de corps.

  Col. Jeff "Wolf" Lofgren presided over the ceremony. He told Col. Sakulich that "you come to us highly qualified to lead the MSG to new heights. These warriors are not satisfied and I know you will challenge them, provide them vision and direction."

  To met the vision and direction Col. Lofgren spoke about Col. Sakulich has three focus areas that Airmen in the group will learn more about in the coming days, weeks and months.

  Colonel Sakulich said focus on the mission is job number one with proficiency in war fighting readiness followed by a commitment to team excellence and then personal excellence.

  "This MSG is known across the Air Force as the sought after crucible of experience that forges America's best Airmen," Col. Sakulich said. "That we are warriors who work hard, achieve our mission and play smart with good order and discipline expected from all who wear out nation's uniform."

  As Col. Mona Lisa D. Tucker, former 8th MSG commander becomes part of the storied history of the Wolf Pack she thanked everyone from each group and said "This has been a great year. I was told this would be the most rewarding year of my professional life. And it is true, I have been nothing but truly blessed."

  She wished Col. Sakulich and told him "you are getting a great team."

  The colonel leaves Kunsan for an assignment as the vice wing commander, Tinker Air Force Base, Okla.

  Col. Sakulich comes to Kunsan from Headquarters U.S. Southern Command, Miami, Fla. where he was the Director, Programs and Resources. The native of Ferndale, Mich. has held various jobs at two air logistics centers and in the Washington, D.C. area.