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931st Operations Support Squadron receives new commander

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Abigail Klein
  • 931st Air Refueling Group
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  The 931st Operations Support Squadron received a new commander during an assumption of command ceremony in a ceremony officiated Lt. Col. Michael M. Moeding, director of operations, 18th Air Refueling Squadron, here Sept. 14.

Lieutenant Col. Esteban Ramirez, incoming commander of the 931st OSS, replaced Lt. Col. Stacy Wharton, who recently accepted a position at the Pentagon.

"This is a testament to your servant leadership, your service before self, and your unique level of humility," Moeding said to Ramirez during the ceremony. "It also demonstrates your willingness to work hard as a consummate Citizen Airman and a pillar of the Wichita community."

According to the 931st Air Refueling Group Commander, Col. Mark S. Larson, Ramirez's qualifications and experience make him the right person for the job.

"It's very easy to get bogged down in metrics and numbers as a leader but you have to look at the bigger picture and recognize that you are dealing with people who contribute strongly to mission accomplishment," said Larson. "Lt. Col. Ramirez is a respected pilot and leader, with more than 100 combat missions and numerous mobilizations to Southwest Asia. He recognizes that people working toward a common goal make a mission successful and that if the mission is successful the numbers will support it."

Ramirez's assumption marks the first time a 931st ARG squadron has been commanded by a former 931st ARG Airman.

Upon assuming command, Ramirez stated that he would try to lead with character, courage, commitment and passion.

"You will not find a person more grateful to be leading you," Ramirez said to the members of the 931st OSS. "I want to lead with good character, even when it's hard, even when it's painful."

The 931st OSS is responsible for current operations, aircrew flight equipment, mission development, tactics, crew communication, intelligence and other vital functions in support of the group and the 18th Air Refueling Squadron.