Hollis assumes command of the 434th Operations Group

  • Published
  • By Douglas Hays
  • 434th ARW Public Affairs
GRISSOM AIR RESERVE, Ind. --  There’s a new top operator in town, and his name is Hollis, Colonel Brian Hollis.

Hollis assumed command of the 434th Operations Group July 15 filling the vacancy of Lt. Col. Todd Moody who retired in June.

“Colonel Hollis has extensive experience in all aspects of the air mobility mission,” said Col. Larry Shaw, 434th Air Refueling Wing commander, who presided over the ceremony.

In his position, Hollis will supervise and direct the refueling squadrons, and is responsible for all KC-135R Stratotanker operational matters within the wing.

“I work for you in the ops group,” Hollis said. “I’m your advocate and I work for you.”

The 434th OG consists of two flying squadrons, total of 16 KC-135Rs, and an operational support squadron.

“This is the best operations group in the Air Force bar none!,” he said. “We have the best air planes and get the best support.”

With the operations tempo being at an all-time high the last few years, the 434th OG remains operational ready 24/7.

“As I start on this journey, my being here is about you and us accomplishing the mission together,” he said.

That mission includes a unique role supporting both the Single Integrated Operational Plan and conventional tanker missions, something Hollis takes pride in.

“It is an honor to wear this uniform,” he said. “There is no job more important than what we do and there is no job that gives you the satisfaction of wearing the cloth of your country.”

He is a command pilot with more than 5,000 flying hours and has deployed in support of Operations Desert Fox, Inherent Resolve, Allied Force, Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, among others.

The 434th ARW is the largest KC-135R Stratotanker unit in the Air Force Reserve Command. The Citizen Airmen from the Hoosier Wing routinely deploy around the world in support of the Air Force mission.

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