89th Airlift Squadron welcomes new commander

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Martin Moleski
  • 445th Airlift Wing
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AFB, Ohio --  Reservists from the 445th Airlift Wing, both former and current, gathered June 7 for the change of command ceremony as Lt. Col. Mike Bending assumed command of the 89th Airlift Squadron from Lt. Col. Tim Baldwin. The ceremony was presided by Col. Roger Gallet, 445th Operations Group commander, and narrated by Capt. John Pica. Colonels Bending and Baldwin were joined by family, friends and special dignitaries on a weekend that brought many former members back together again. 

"It is truly a blessing to be part of such a close-knit squadron," said Colonel Gallet. "We take care of each other in difficult times, and we enjoy those special bonds of brotherhood formed over years of working hard and playing hard together," he added. 

Colonel Baldwin became the commander of the 89th Airlift Squadron in October 2005 and during the next two and a half years led the squadron as it demobilized following an extended period of activation, retired the C-141 aircraft, merged two airlift squadrons, transitioned to the C-5 aircraft and, finally, into and through the successful performance of the Operational Readiness Inspection. 

"The 89th has emerged a full-up, combat-ready C-5 unit, which can go head-to-head with any C-5 unit in the Air Force - active, guard or reserve," said Colonel Gallet. "And that's a direct reflection of your leadership," he said addressing Colonel Baldwin. 

Commissioned in 1986, Colonel Bending began his Air Force Reserve career in September 1995 when he joined the 89th Airlift Sqadron. Among his duties performed during the last 13 years, Colonel Bending has served as a pilot scheduler, deployed stage manager and, most recently, chief pilot. As he addressed the members of the squadron he now commands, Colonel Bending reflected on Colonel Gallet's remarks regarding the history and camaraderie of the 89th. 

"I consider many of our distinguished guests here today as the founding fathers of this squadron," Colonel Bending said. "This really doesn't feel like a change of command ceremony, but more like a family reunion. With great honor and pride, I assume command of the 89th Airlift Squadron," he concluded.