The 91st Security Forces Group welcomed a new commander on June 17.
MINOT, ND (KXNET) — The 91st Security Forces Group welcomed a new commander on June 17.
According to a news release, U.S. Air Force Col. James Slaton took over at Minot Air Force Base.
A ceremony took place at the 91st SFG Defender Dome with the families of the outgoing and incoming commander, as well as members of Team Minot.
“Col. James Slaton is no stranger to Minot Air Force Base, as this is his third time serving as a Rough Rider defender,” said Col. Kenneth McGhee, the 91st Missile Wing Commander. “His impact on the unit goes beyond the years he was stationed here, as he was a principal architect of the current structure of the SFG units across the Numbered Air Force.”
Slaton has served in many strategic nuclear positions and has served for roughly 23 years. He’s been stationed at nine locations and has fulfilled 16 different jobs.
Slaton will be responsible for operations involving the 91st Missile Wing Rough Riders’ 1,800 airmen and civilians in support of the Minuteman III ICBMs.
“It is fantastic to be back at Minot AFB, and it’s my greatest honor to get the opportunity to work once again with the men and women of the 91st SFG,” expressed Col. Slaton.
Col. McGhee shared his thoughts on the outgoing 91st SFG Commander, Col. Anthony McCarty.
“Col. McCarty, because of your leadership, our young Airmen have never been more ready to accept their daily responsibilities and accept even greater challenges,” Col. McGhee exclaimed. “Because of your leadership, our convoy response teams have never been more primed to transport, protect, and defend our most precious assets when they are at their most vulnerable.”
Col. McCarty shared his gratitude before relinquishing his command by saying, “To all of you sitting in this building, know that you have left a lasting mark on me and I will be forever grateful for my time here at Minot, where the front gate says it all, ‘only the best come north.'”