183rd Fighter Wing changes commanders

Story by Master Sgt. Shaun Kerr, 183rd Fighter Wing Public Affairs

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SPRINGFIELD, IL (11/03/2014)(readMedia)-- SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Col. John E. Patterson of Jacksonville, Illinois, assumed command of the 183rd Fighter Wing in Springfield, Illinois, Nov. 2.

The outgoing commander, Col. Ronald E. Paul of Springfield, Illinois, was promoted to brigadier general and selected for a new assignment. The 183rd flag was passed to Patterson by Daniel Krumrei, Adjutant General of the Illinois National Guard, during the ceremony, signifying the assumption of command.

Patterson has served in all aspects of flying operations to include chief of training, scheduling, standardization and evaluation, weapons and tactics, as well as, functional check flight pilot. He served as the 170th Operations Support Squadron Commander, 183rd Operations Group Deputy Commander, 183rd Maintenance Group Commander, 183rd Air Operations Group Chief of Strategy and the 183rd Mission Support Group Commander.

"I am honored and humbled to accept command of the 183rd Fighter Wing," said Patterson. "We have some of the best men and women the military has to offer. I'm looking forward to a bright and prosperous future for the wing."

The 183rd has formed a close bond with the people and leaders of the local community, said Patterson.

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

Col. Jeffry A. Rice of Lebanon, Tennessee, will continue to serve alongside Patterson as vice commander.

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

(Right) Col. John E. Patterson of Jacksonville, Illinois, assumes command of the 183rd Fighter Wing in Springfield, Illinois, as he accepts the wing's flag from Daniel Krumrei, Adjutant General of the Illinois National Guard, Nov. 2. (U.S. Air National guard photo by Master Sgt. Shaun Kerr, 183rd Fighter Wing Public Affairs)