801st SOAMXS changes command

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Christopher Callaway
  • 1st Special Operations Wing Public Affairs
HURLBURT FIELD, FLA. --  The 801st Special Operations Aircraft Maintenance Squadron held a change of command ceremony at the Freedom Hangar here, June 17.

Lt. Col. Felix Johnfinn passed the 801st SOAMXS guidon to Col. Kevin Howard, 1st Special Operations Maintenance Group commander, who then presented the guidon to Maj. Jeffrey Johns, the next 801st SOAMXS commander.

"I am completely proud to have served as your commanding officer," Johnfinn said. "This squadron does the heavy lifting for the wing, and this past two years we have developed new technology to fill combat priorities and provided mission-ready technicians. These men and women will accomplish any task given to them."

As the ceremony concluded, the Air Commandos sang the Air Force song and had refreshments to thank and welcome their commanders.

"There is no greater privilege then to serve as a commander in the United States Air Force," said Johns. "As your commander, I pledge to ensure the men and women of this squadron have the resources to accomplish everything our mission entails. Very few people will remember the words I say today, but everyone will remember my actions as I serve as their commander."

The 801st SOAMXS performs all equipment maintenance in support of worldwide special operations missions. The squadron supports the CV-22B Osprey hybrid aircraft and MC-130H Talon II aircraft.

Johns commissioned in 1999 through Air Force Reserve Officer Trainer Corps at the University of Troy, Ala. He's been through a variety of assignments, including several flight commander positions. He also served as the functional manager for maintenance manpower resources at headquarters Air Mobility Command, Scott Air Force Base, Ill. He joined Team Hurlburt after graduating Command and Staff College at Marine Corps University, Quantico, Va.