JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii -- The 15th Maintenance Group welcomed a new commander during a change-of-command ceremony, here, July 16.
Col. Dominic Clementz assumed command of the 15th MXG from Col. Robert Copes, as Col. Halsey Burks, 15th Wing commander, presided over the ceremony.
“During his tenure here, Col. Copes crushed his mission,” said Burks. “Through his pride, professionalism and passion he has built a team of Airmen comprised of active duty, guard, civilians and contractors that have made the mission of the 15th Wing successful.”
The MXG’s total force integration relationship with the Hawaii Air National Guard has been critical to the maintenance successes of the C-17 and F-22 mission sets.
“The first thing that comes to mind is amazing,” said Copes. “No matter what has confronted this team of maintainers, they have found a way to adapt and overcome. It has been my honor to lead them.”
During Copes’ tenure, the MXG supported 31 home station aircraft to meet global airlift, global strike and theater security mission requirements. The group also provided support to over 21,600 joint and allied aircraft transiting through Hickam Field.
Hickam Field serves as a strategic launching pad for the projection American airpower throughout the Indo-Pacific Area of Responsibility.
“Hickam is the heartbeat of the Pacific,” said Burks. “With Col. Clementz’ background, I believe he will help solidify the air bridge out here in the Pacific and help the MXG reach new heights.”
“I look forward to working with all of you, to develop and empower our Airmen to continue to dominate the mission,” said Clementz. “I look forward to spending the next few years with you and seeing what we can accomplish together.”
The 15th MXG helps execute strategic airlift, air dominance and executive airlift missions by maintaining the C-17A, C-37A, C-40 B and F-22A aircraft.