EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- The 96th Medical Group welcomed their new commander, Col. Matthew Hanson, during a change of command ceremony here June 14.
The ceremony’s presiding officer, Brig. Gen. Evan Dertien, 96th Test Wing commander, accepted the group’s guidon from Col. Pamela Smith and passed it to Hanson, symbolizing the start of his command of the group.
“It is an honor and a privilege to be taking command of this exemplary organization,” said Hanson.
Hanson thanked the members of the 96th MDG, his family and the friends in attendance collected from different assignments over the years, ranging from Hawaii, Germany, and Colorado.
“I believe there is no better place to be a medic than the 96th MDG,” Hanson stated in his closing remarks. “Our team of officers, enlisted and civilian professionals have the privilege of supreme health and readiness.”
Hanson comes from Maxwell AFB, Alabama, after graduating from Air War College. Hanson previously served as the commander of 460th Medical Group, Buckley AFB, Colorado.