Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron welcomes new commander

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Martin Moleski
  • 445th Airlift Wing
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AFB, Ohio --  Lt. Col. Linda Stokes-Crowe assumed command of the 445th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron (AES) July 12 in a ceremony presided by Col. Roger Gallet, commander, 445th Operations Group. Colonel Stokes-Crowe assumes command from interim commander, Lt. Col. Catherine Siebert, who has served as commander following the relinquishing of command from Col. Allen Gilbar this past April. Prior to assuming command Colonel Stokes-Crowe was the AES Director of Aeromedical Operations.

"We thank you for choosing leaders with integrity, who ably lead the mission, who motivate us in our work and service and, ultimately, promote freedom in the world by developing fine Air Force Airmen," said Capt. Jonathan Kollmann, 445th Protestant Chaplain, during the invocation prior the official assumption of command.

The selection of Colonel Stokes-Crowe is a significant change for all members of the AES because she will fill the position as a traditional reservist, said Colonel Gallet. While the unit was previously led by a full-time air reserve technician (ART), the unit will now benefit by having two skilled leaders, a traditional reservist and a senior ART, Maj. Todd Mulhorn, Colonel Gallet added.

"It is my honor to assume command of the 445th AES, a unit with a long, proud history of excellence," said Colonel Stokes-Crowe. "Thank you for trusting me to do this job. I will do my best to honor your trust," the colonel added.

Colonel Stokes-Crowe assumes command of the largest Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron in the Air Force. The hard work of the 445th AES has been recognized throughout the Air Force. The unit has received many awards, including the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award 2007, the Outstanding Reserve Medical Quality Initiative Award and the Air Force Reserve Command's 2007 Outstanding Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron.

"This is definitely the high point of my career to date," said Colonel Stokes-Crowe in her concluding remarks. "When I enlisted in the 144th Fighter Interceptor Wing in the early days after Vietnam, I had no idea I would be standing here today. I accept the challenge and responsibility," she added.