153rd Airlift Wing command changes

  • Published
  • Wyo. Military Department
CHEYENNE, Wyo. --  Col. Steve Rader assumed command of the Wyoming National Guard's 153rd Airlift Wing in a ceremony Saturday at the Wyoming Air National Guard base.

Rader assumed command from Col. Dennis Grunstad. Grunstad will be assigned to Wyoming Military Department Joint Force Headquarters, in Cheyenne.

The 153rd Airlift Wing is composed of 12 H-model C-130 Hercules and contains four group commands; the 153rd Maintenance Group, 153rd Operations Group, 153rd Mission Support Group and the 153rd Medical Group.

The wing provides worldwide theater airlift, airdrop and aeromedical evacuation; responds to state and federal disasters to assist with relief; and, when activated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, employs the Modular Airborne Fire Fighting System (MAFFS).

"Col. Rader is an outstanding senior leader who will excel in leading the best airlift wing in the world," Assistant Adjutant General-Air Brig. Gen. Donald Haught said. "We look forward to the continued success of the wing and its ability to meet every challenge that comes its way."

As a result of the change of command, additional command personnel moves effective July 9, include:

Col. Paul Lyman will move from 153rd Mission Support Group commander to 153rd Airlift Wing vice commander.

Lt Col. Pete Linde will assume command of the 153rd Mission Support Group.