183rd Fighter Wing changes commander

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Brig. Gen. James Schroeder, Illinois Air National Guard commander, passes the wing flag to Col. Ronald E. Paul, incoming 183rd Fighter Wing commander.

• Col. Ronald E. Paul of Cudahy, Wisc., incoming 183rd Fighter Wing commander, delivers a speech during the wing’s change of command ceremony in Springfield Nov. 3.

SPRINGFIELD, IL (11/04/2012)(readMedia)-- 183rd Fighter Wing (FW) Commander Col. Michael A. Meyer of Chicago, relinquished command to Col. Ronald E. Paul of Cudahy, Wisc., during a ceremony Nov. 3 in Springfield. Meyer will retire after nearly 35 years of service.

"I am honored and humbled to accept command of the 183rd Fighter Wing," Paul said. "My family and I are very excited to return home to Springfield."

Family and friends of both men gathered to show support. More than 400 past and present members of the 183rd also attended the ceremony.

In a sentiment directed to Meyer, Paul stated, "I would like to thank Colonel Meyer for his years of steadfast leadership. He has definitely postured us for future success."

Paul said he is busy planning for the short and long terms goals of the wing.

"The members of the 183rd have a rich tradition and a bright future," Paul said. "In the short term, we will focus on preparation for our mega inspection. I fully anticipate our team to wow the inspectors. Further down the road, we will demonstrate our abilities and show we are the best in the business. We will seek out and attempt to secure expanded roles which match our skills."

He is also enthusiastic about having the opportunity to work with Springfield and Sangamon County leaders to grow the partnerships started by Meyer.

"I would also like to thank members of the community for their support of the 183rd," said Paul. "I look forward to meeting and continuing our special relationship."

Col. Jeffry A. Rice will continue to serve alongside Paul as the 183rd FW vice commander.

"It has been my privilege to work with Colonel Meyer," said Rice. "I appreciate his leadership, mentorship and friendship. I look forward to working with Colonel Paul as we move ahead and face new challenges."

Paul will officially assume command Nov. 19 when his position as Director of Logistics, First Air Force and Continental U.S. North American Defense Command Region at Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla., comes to an end.

Paul is returning to the 183rd FW after serving two years in Florida. During his previous time at the 183rd, he served as chief of supply, Logistics Squadron; commander, Maintenance Squadron; commander, Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, and commander, Mission Support Group. Prior to serving at the 183rd he served in Alaska, Utah, the United Kingdom, Germany and Idaho. He graduated from Aircraft Maintenance Officer Course, Chanute Air Force Base, Ill., in February 1998.

Photo captions:

U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Shaun Kerr, 183rd Fighter Wing Public Affairs/ Brig. Gen. James Schroeder, Illinois Air National Guard commander, passes the wing flag to Col. Ronald E. Paul, incoming 183rd Fighter Wing commander, during a change of command ceremony in Springfield Nov. 3. The passing of the flag symbolizes the passing of command responsibilities to the new commander.

U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Shaun Kerr, 183rd Fighter Wing Public Affairs/Col. Ronald E. Paul of Cudahy, Wisc., incoming 183rd Fighter Wing commander, delivers a speech during the wing's change of command ceremony in Springfield Nov. 3. Paul officially assumes command Nov. 19.

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