1st SOMXS changes command

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Christopher Callaway
  • 1st Special Operations Wing Public Affairs
HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. --  The 1st Special Operations Maintenance Squadron hosted a change of command ceremony at the Freedom Hangar here, June 21.

Maj. Michael Campos passed the 1st SOMXS guidon to Col. Kevin Howard, 1st Special Operations Maintenance Group commander, who then presented the guidon to Maj. James Cooper, the incoming 1st SOMXS commander.

"During the past few years, I have had the honor commanding, in my opinion, the finest airmen in the Air Force," Campos said. "Your ability to safely generate the Combat Shadows in garrison and at war, quickly adapt and overcome the challenges and your stellar performance is a testament to the dedication you have in completing our mission--you have all performed brilliantly."

As the ceremony concluded, the official party left the stage and embraced their families before everyone in attendance gathered for refreshments.

"This is one amazing squadron that Maj. Campos has built and I am truly grateful to get the chance to lead," said Cooper. "I promise [this squadron], I will do my very best to ensure you have the necessary leadership, training and equipment to make sure you can continue your record of excellence."

The 1st SOMXS conducts special operations airlift, helicopter air refueling and psychological operations throughout the United States, South America, Africa and Middle East.

Cooper enlisted in 1987 as a bomb navigations systems technician on the B-52H aircraft. After completing his Bachelor of Science degree from Wayland Baptist University, Texas, he received his commission from the Air Force Officer Training School. He joined Team Hurlburt after he served as the 1st Special Operations Maintenance Operations Squadron commander since March 2012.