8th SOS Change of Command

Lieutenant Col. Travis Hill, right, takes the 8th Special Operations Squadron guidon during the 8th SOS change of command ceremony at the Freedom Hangar on Hurlburt Field, Fla. June 14, 2013. This gesture is accomplished in front of the unit so all can witness their new leader assuming command. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Krystal M. Garrett)

8th Special Operations Squadron changes command

Published June 17, 2013
By Senior Airman Krystal M. Garrett
1st Special Operations Wing Public Affairs

HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. -- Lieutenant Col. Matt Smith relinquished command of the 8th Special Operations Squadron to Lt. Col. Travis Hill during a change of command ceremony here, June 14.

The 8th SOS command consists of more than 80 Airmen operating 11 CV-22 Osprey hybrid aircraft supporting combat operations. During Smith's command, he maintained a 90 percent combat mission-readiness rate.

"Blackbirds, serving alongside you in the 8th has been one of the greatest privileges in my life," he said. "As I leave you today I am heartened by the fact that your leadership team is the best in the business."

Hill started his military career as an enlisted Airman and commissioned in June of 1994.
He began his service as an officer after graduating from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida.

As an officer he has held an array of assignments in his career, including commander of the 9th Special Operations Squadron, assistant operations officer for the 427th Special Operations Squadron and chief of safety for the 36th Airlift Squadron.

"To the 8th SOS, it is an honor to serve among your ranks," Hill said. "I am extremely proud to serve with each and every one of you and look forward to the adventures that lay ahead."