MacDill Air Force Base, Fla. -- Lt. Col. Michael Albert took command of the 927th Operational Support Squadron from Lt. Col. Benjamin Ward during a change of command ceremony on MacDill Air Force Base, Fla., June 5, 2021. Col James Mach Jr., 927th Operations Group Commander, presided over the ceremony, passing the guidon to Albert. Additionally, Mach awarded the Air Force Meritorious Service Medal to Ward for his achievements during command.
Albert previously served as the 927th ARW Inspector General, ensuring mission readiness and compliance to Air Force standards.
"Having been in that role, you see the challenges we face in the Operations Group." said Mach during the opening comments, "I have no doubt you will serve the mission and your Airmen to the utmost of your ability. Lead them well.”
The Operations Support Squadron has one of the widest mission sets ranging from weather to aircrew flight equipment, intel and much more. The range of their capabilities make it possible for the Operations Group to carry out aerial refueling in support of numerous key Air Force missions such as long range precision air strikes, global air lift, and even reconnaissance.
"It's unique in that it's the most diverse Squadron in the Wing," explained Albert during the ceremony, "The KC-135 can't carry out its mission without the support of the OSS."
During the ceremony, Albert explained that his first active duty assignment was at MacDill Air Force Base and that he's returned several times throughout his career.
"This has been home to me for most of my career, and I love it here," said Albert. “I am proud and honored to be leading the Airmen of the 927th Operations Support Squadron”