Challenging times still no match for 919 SOW, departing commander says

  • Published
  • By Dan Neely
  • 919th Special Operations Wing Public Affairs
DUKE FIELD, Fla. --  
Having led the Air Force Reserve's most decorated wing for the past two and a half years, Col. Steve Chapman is packing his bags for a new assignment.

After he relinquishes leadership of the 919th Special Operations Wing to Col. Jon Weeks April 4 he'll depart Duke Field for the "Lowcountry" of South Carolina and Charleston Air Force Base. There he'll take command of the 315th Airlift Wing, a Reserve strategic airlift unit and associate of the active duty host 437th AW - both operating the C-17 Globemaster III .

But the colonel said his No. 1 pre-move checklist item was to thank those who helped make his tenure and the wing's mission so successful.

"When I first arrived here, I was very humbled to have been given the opportunity to serve with so many first-rate men and women," Colonel Chapman recalled. "The experiences I've had and the lessons I've learned here will stay with me forever."

The colonel said he was extremely impressed by the manner in which the wing's traditional reservists, Air Reserve Technicians and civilians accomplished their mission despite challenging times and circumstances.

"Particularly within the ops and maintenance fields today there are so many requirements that we have to maintain, regardless of specialty - so much training and so much time put into the organization - it really takes you back, as far as their overall dedication and professionalism." He added that the wing's family members and employers deserved praise for their roles as "critical pillars" and force multipliers for the wing's Citizen Airmen.

Colonel Chapman shared his pride in leading a team whose uniquely positioned mission is critical to America's national security.

"Being that the 919th SOW is the only special operations unit in the Air Force Reserve and that we operate the Talon I, the only aircraft of its type in the Reserve or Regular Air Force, I think they fill a critical niche for the combatant commander to utilize," he said. "Combine that with the 5th SOS operating the PC12/U28 and the 2nd SOS providing personnel for the Predator mission at Nellis (AFB, Nev.), exceptional expeditionary combat support from our security forces, communications, logistics - you name it, within the operational realm the 919th SOW obviously provides top quality support regardless of Air Force specialty."

The 919th SOW's ability to carry out that mission would be challenged if not for strong interest and support from Duke Field's community neighbors, organizations and leaders, the colonel suggested.

"I think the chambers of commerce, the military affairs committees and many other local organizations from within the Eglin military complex are top-notch in supporting us," he said. "Without their understanding and support, I don't think we could do our job as well as we do."

Citing a few examples, Colonel Chapman praised the community's active participation in and support for the wing's "Family Day" events, quarterly and annual awards programs, major award ceremonies such as the Gallant Unit Citation, honorary commander programs, even serving as judges for chili cook-offs.

Asked if he'll be leaving much unfinished business, the colonel replied, "Actually, we have a lot - programs that need to be completed. Total Force Integration initiatives, for example, have yet to be completed and that's the foundation for the growth of the 919th SOW in the future. I think that's critical.

"There are also infrastructure issues within Duke that need to be addressed," he continued, "but that's going to be a continuing challenge because we don't necessarily receive funds the same day. It could be three to four years out, but that will have to be resolved."

In terms of his legacy, Colonel Chapman said he feels he left his mark by plotting the course for the wing's success.

"Obviously we couldn't do that without the outstanding leaders within this wing -- the group and squadron commanders -- and I think I've lent that direction and stability while maintaining our operational capabilities," he said. "I've worked to take care of the people and provide the funding required for the organization to complete their mission - both home station and deployed."

While regretting being an infrequent visitor to his next base, Colonel Chapman said he has enjoyed a few brief opportunities to meet folks at the 315th AW.

"We did spend some time visiting Charleston for our employer lift (a tour flight of other Reserve units for employers of 919 SOW reservists), and it's a beautiful base with outstanding people I've had an opportunity to meet," he recalled. "This will be a total association with the 437th, and I've heard nothing but good things about that organization. I'm looking forward to the opportunities and challenges of working with the outstanding people there, and I know they have strong community support as well."

Summing up his view of the wing's future, Colonel Chapman said he was very confident about its continued successes and major achievements.

"There will be continuing challenges and opportunities that the men and women of this organization will successfully face with the exceptional leaders currently in place and those who will be put in place in the near future," he said. "Nothing but great things are ahead for the 919th SOW."