MacDill Air Force Base, FL -- Col. Brook D. Elkins took command of the 927th Aeromedical Staging Squadron during an assumption of command ceremony Feb. 3, 2024, here.
Elkins comes to the 927th ASTS from the 926th Aerospace Medical Squadron, Nellis Air Force Base, Navada. In that role he was responsible for leading a team of medical professionals that provided comprehensive care for more than 1300 Air Force Citizen Airmen.
Col. Kurt A. Matthews, 927th Air Refueling Wing commander, presided over the ceremony. He highlighted the importance of knowing your “why” when reporting for duty each month and the sacrifice of family members for supporting their members as they serve in the Air Force.
“We could not do what we do without the support of our families and loved ones,” said Matthews. “The best part about these types of ceremonies is we get to see the families that hold it down and home and the military families we serve alongside.”
Col. Keyan R. Riley, relinquishing commander of the 927th ASTS, addressed the squadron one last time to thank them for their support and assure them of the qualifications of their new commander.
“Col. Elkins is the right person to be coming in and taking over this squadron at this time,” said Riley. “I’ve known him for a long time, since we were sitting in a staff office at NORTHCOM/NORAD in Colorado Springs. I trusted him from the moment I met him.”
Upon taking command, Elkins took to the podium, along with his Basic Military Training official photo, to address the 927th ASTS and tell his Air Force story.
“I joined as an Airman Basic in 1989,” said Elkins. “I commissioned after 10 years from the 302nd Aeromedical Staging Squadron, Colorado Springs, Colorado, as a medical logistics person. So, I really grew up in the Aeromedical Staging Squadron.”
Elkins ended his speech with a challenge for the Airmen of the 927th ASTS about being Ready Now. He encouraged them to reflect on what they can do to support each other to be ready mentally, physically, spiritually and with their families.
The 927th ASTS provides medical readiness planning and response to U.S. Homeland Threats.