1st Special Operations Support Squadron changes command

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Kentavist P. Brackin
  • 1st Special Operations Wing Public Affairs
HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. --  Lieutenant Col. Jeremy D. Kokenes relinquished command of 1st Special Operations Support Squadron to Lt. Col. Michael C. Edwards during a change of command ceremony here, June 7.

The 1st SOSS consists of more than 350 personnel who assist with the various flying operations by providing support functions both on Hurlburt Field, Fla., and while deployed.

During the ceremony Edwards said Kokenes was the best squadron commander he had ever worked for.

"You have set the standard, and I hope to follow your example," he said.

Edwards, a native of Charlotte, N.C., began his service after graduating from Gardner Webb University in Boiling Springs, N.C. From 1997 to 1998, he served as a student navigator for the 19th Special Operations Squadron.

He served various positions as a Spooky navigator until 2003 when he attended the United States Air Force Weapons School. Edwards completed weapons school as a distinguished graduate and later served as a weapons school instructor.

Edwards has held an array of assignments in his career, including AC-130U Spooky gunship navigation evaluator, the chief of Programs and Resources Special Operations Division and operations officer for 1st SOSS on Hurlburt.

As the ceremony concluded the 1st SOSS Spartans bid farewell to Kokenes and saluted their new commander, Edward.

"Spartans, I will keep this simple," said Edwards. "This squadron is the finest OSS in the Air Force, and I am humbled to have the opportunity to serve as your commander."