Assumption of command for Maintenance Group

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Eric Bolt
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AFB, S.D. --  Col. Thomas Fitch assumed command of the 28th Maintenance Group, Feb. 22, during a ceremony in Dock 33 officiated by Col. Scott Vander Hamm, 28th Bomb Wing commander.

Colonel Fitch was previously stationed at Langley AFB, Va., as the Air Combat Command Directorate of Logistics Command and Control Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance chief. Throughout his tenure in the Air Force, the colonel has been awarded the Meritorious Service Medal with two oak leaf clusters, Air force Commendation Medal with three oak leaf clusters and Air Force Achievement Medal with one oak leaf cluster.

His first assignment took him to England AFB, La., and he's been responsible for a variety of aircraft to include the A-10, HC-130S and HH-60S.

"Colonel Fitch has served in key leadership positions across the maintenance community and disciplines," said Colonel Vander Hamm. "To put it simply, Ellsworth not only hit a home run, but a grand slam when Colonel Fitch was announced as our next 28 MXG commander."

In his speech, Colonel Fitch shared his thoughts about leading the maintenance group here. "Our people are all volunteers who believe it is their duty to support and defend the Constitution of the United States," Colonel Fitch said. "You are a group of great Americans, and I am proud to join you in this worthy work."

"By stressing the basics in our operational habits, we will be able to the water the eyes of the ACC Inspector General in the upcoming Operational Readiness Inspection," Colonel Fitch said.

"Every person in [the 28 MXG] needs to remember what they do every day is important, and we want their very best at all times," Colonel Fitch said. "If you get the basics right at work and in your personal life you can execute your plan."

Colonel Fitch is joined at Ellsworth by his wife and two daughters.

As 28 MXG commander, he will be responsible for directing maintenance efforts to ensure the readiness of B-1 aircraft stationed here.