PORTLAND, Ore. -- U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Michael Kosderka assumed command of the 142nd Maintenance Group during a change of command ceremony held at Portland Air National Guard Base, Ore., Oct. 1, 2020.
Kosderka assumed command from Col. William Kopp, who took over as the 142nd Wing Vice Commander.
“To the men and women of the 142nd MXG, I want to tell you I can’t be more proud of your leadership team,” said Col. David Unruh, 142nd Wing Commander, who was the presiding officer over the ceremony. “I’m thrilled to see what the future holds as we move forth.”
At a traditional change of command ceremony, a guidon staff representing the unit is passed on to the new commander. Due to social distancing and COVID-19 guidelines, the staff was not physically passed on.
Kosderka gave remarks as the new 142nd MXG commander.
“My goal is to help you [Airmen] achieve your personal and professional goals,” he said. “My job is actually quite simple: my job is to remove barriers, obstructions, and frustrations that you have in order to achieve those personal and professional goals.”
Kosderka also made a promise to his new team.
“I can promise you that I will be there for you, I will help you achieve whatever it is that you need to achieve so that we can be successful.”