DUKE FIELD, Fla. -- When Col. David Hanson first learned his next assignment would take him to the 919th Special Operations Wing, he did what most people who live nearby would do. He took a trip up Hwy 85 and made his way to the base just South of Crestview, where he now proudly calls home.
“I was excited and didn’t waste any time before visiting,” said the new 919th Special Operations Wing vice commander. “I wanted to reacquaint myself with the base and its distinct position within the special operations community.”
Afterward, the career special operations professional met with wing leadership, Air Force Special Operations Command-assigned reservists, and some of his friends and peers who have served in the 919th SOW to learn more about the wing and its dynamic mission.
“The 919th SOW is a unique organization, directly involved in taking the fight to our nation’s enemies. I’m appreciative of the opportunity to serve in such an amazing organization,” said Hanson. “When they told me of the assignment I said, ‘absolutely, I’m all in.’”
Coming from a rich AFSOC background, Hanson said that diverse experience and balanced leadership are what he brings to the growing 919th SOW mission. Throughout his career, he has served within six separate special operations squadrons, numerous AFSOC staff positions, and an Air Staff tour.
Learning the 919th SOW mission, meeting its people, and understanding Reserve culture and language are what the new vice commander said he is looking forward to most in his new position.
“I want to be a sponge when it comes to all things Reserve-related,” said the Air Force Weapons School and School of Advance Air and Space Studies graduate. “From my perspective, AFSOC effectively integrates with our Reserve and Guard teammates, but typically view these partnerships through the lens of our active-duty experience. With an assignment like this, that viewpoint and understanding will become much clearer.”
Through his 23-year career, the colonel has interacted with 919th SOW’s aircrews, squadrons and instructors as he served in various AFSOC units. Now, as he is immersed into the 919th SOW, he said the Citizen Air Commandos’ professionalism and positive attitude have truly made a favorable impression.
“They are really first class, true experts,” he said. “Our military and civilian Airmen are excited and proud to be here. Their talent and expertise are clearly on display. I continue to see that over and over as I visit more of the units.”
The colonel, who’s working on his doctorate, credits the many officer, enlisted, and civilian leaders and mentors who took the time to develop and support his leadership and professional development.
“Combined with the foundation provided by my parents, the support of my family, and a lot of hard work, I’ve been able to grow and thrive since joining the special operations community in 1995,” he said. “The pathway of the Air Commando and quiet professional has led me here and I’m honored to be a new member of the 919th SOW,” he said. “This is a very exciting and unique time of change and growth in our history and I’m grateful to be a part of it.”