338th TRS welcomes new commander

  • Published
  • By Kemberly Groue
  • 81st Training Wing Public Affairs

Lt. Col. Andre Johnson, incoming 338th Training Squadron commander, took command from Lt. Col. Michael Zink, outgoing 338thTRS commander, during a change of command ceremony here, July 26.

Col. Leo Lawson, Jr., 81st Training Group commander, presided over the ceremony.

Johnson came to Keesler Air Force Base from Royal Air Force Croughton, England, where he was the 422nd Communications Squadron commander.

“To command is an honor and a privilege,” said Johnson. “Not only am I blessed to have the opportunity to lead the Dark Knights and be a part of this exceptional dragon leadership team, I recognize that I am also blessed to have the opportunity to impact the future of our Air Force’s greatest weapon...our Airmen.”

Zink expressed his gratitude to the men and women of the 338th TRS in his final address as commander.

It’s easy to be a commander when you’re surrounded by great people,” said Zink.Watching you instructors at work every day and work with the students inspired me to be a better commander. I am humbled and honored to have been your commander for the past two years. It’s been extraordinary. Once a Dark Knight, always a Dark Knight!”

Zink’s next assignment will be at the U.S. Air Force in Europe, Ramstein Air Base, Germany, where he will serve as the deputy director of cyber forces.