Articles

36th Maintenance Squadron welcomes a new commander

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Nichelle Griffiths
  • 36th Wing Public Affairs
ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam --  A Change of Command for the 36th Maintenance Squadron was held at the Palm Tree Golf Course Ballroom July 10.

Maj. Joseph Shirey, the new commanding officer of the 36th MXS, moved to Andersen from his assignment at the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Component Headquarters, Izmir, Turkey. During his tour, he served as the logistics staff officer and the logistics area chief conducting tactical evaluations for declared NATO forces.

According to Col. Bret Klassen, Major Shirey brings a wealth of experience.

"He is very well versed in compliance and inspection criteria; it's a skill set that will serve him very well here at Andersen," said Colonel Klassen, 36th Maintenance Group commander.

"I'm honored to have this privilege to command the 36th Maintenance Squadron," said Major Shirey. "I will diligently work to uphold that trust and confidence that you've given me and take care of the men and women of the 36th Maintenance Squadron and support the mission that our nation has provided us."

Outgoing commander, Maj. David Boles has commanded the 36th MXS for two years. As commander he took on the project of integrating the deployed personnel and the personnel on station.

"You see that fully now, there is no difference between the personnel who deploy in and the personnel stationed here," said Colonel Klassen.

Major Boles reenergized the crash recovery program, established the first deployable avionics shop, renovated and consolidated the maintenance operations control center, modernized the hangers and machine shops and supported various global power sorties.

He also led the 36th MXS to an "Excellent" rating in the Unit Compliance Inspection and helped the 36th MXG earn the Air Force Association's Air Space Award Citation of Honor and the Pacific Air Force's maintenance effectiveness award.

"Major Boles will truly be missed," said Colonel Klassen.