TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- Colonel Derek C. France, former Deputy Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations, United States Forces Korea, took command of the 325th Fighter Wing from Col. David E. Graff during a change of command ceremony July 24, 2014, at Hangar 2, Tyndall AFB, Florida.
"I am honored and humbled to take this command," France said. "We will consistently train to air dominance excellence, and we will be ready to project combat air power whenever and wherever it is needed."
Major Gen. H. D. Polumbo, Jr., Ninth Air Force commander, officiated the ceremony and expressed confidence in the new commander.
"France brings with him a leadership style that enhances and promotes a commitment to service and has an impressive track record of success," Polumbo said. "These qualities will help the 325th FW reach new heights. I look forward to the continuing success of the wing under his leadership."
Graff will retire from the Air Force and said he's confident the 325th FW is in capable hands.
France is no stranger to Tyndall. In 1994, he trained with the 95th Fighter Squadron on the F-15 Eagle and returned again in 2008 to command the 43rd Fighter Squadron.
"I am proud to wear the patches of the 325th FW and once again count myself among you as one of the Checkertails," France said. "I look forward to serving with each and every one of you."
Tyndall hosts the largest number of F-22 Raptors in the world. The 325th FW's primary mission is to train and project unrivaled combat power.