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Street takes command of 72nd ARS

  • Published
  • By By Staff Sgt. Alexa Culbert
  • 434th Air Refueling Wing

The 72nd Air Refueling Squadron welcomed Lt. Col. Scott Street as their new commander during an assumption of command ceremony, January 21, 2023, at Gus Grissom Hall.

The assumption of command ceremony is a long held military tradition that sees the passing of the guidon onto the next commander.

Col. Douglas Perry,  434th Operations Group commander, presided over the ceremony.

“I really appreciate you stepping up and looking to lead at the next level,” said Perry. “You’re going to do an incredible job at the squadron. You have wonderful people here and lot of talent throughout the organization… I’m super excited to have you on board.”

After taking command, Street addressed the audience and said that he intends to carry the torch that was passed onto him from the previous commander, Lt. Col. Derek Portlock.

“He left this squadron in really good shape. So, my goal is to keep that same momentum and continue to press on… I’m not trying to reinvent the wheel at all at this point. I just want to make sure everybody’s being cared for the same way that he did and anything that I can do better or add onto, I’m going to absolutely go for that.”

The 72nd ARS is one of two flying units assigned here at Grissom and is responsible for supporting the air refueling mission.

While Street is a first-time squadron commander, he isn’t new to the squadron.  He joined the 72nd ARS in 2008 and has since served as an aircraft commander, instructor pilot, a flight commander, and most recently, the assistant director of operations.

“I’ve been told by several people and even as recently as of today, that being a squadron commander is the best job in the Air Force and I think they’re right,” said Street. “I’m excited to start and I’m excited for the opportunity, and I’m looking forward to the challenges it’s going to bring. I hope everyone will help me as I plan to help you as well, and I’m just ready to get to work.”

Public Affairs Staff

Material contained on the Official Grissom Air Reserve Base Internet Web Site is written and produced by members of the 434th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs Office. The award-winning staff includes:

Douglas Hays
Chief, public affairs

Maj. Elias Zani
Public affairs officer

Josh Weaver
Public affairs operations chief

Master Sgt. Josh Weaver
NCOIC of public affairs

Master Sgt. Rachel Barton
Staff writer

Tech. Sgt. Alexa Culbert
Staff writer

Senior Airman Alexis Morris
Staff writer

Airman 1st Class Elise Faurote
Staff writer