Change-of-Command, Continued Success

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Meredith Mingledorff
  • 944th Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  The 944th Logistics Readiness Squadron changed command May 6, during a ceremony held in Building 999 here. Lt. Col. Michael A. Boutet relinquished command to Col. Anne Gunter, commander, 944th Mission Support Group, who then handed command to Lt. Col. Kip M. Schlum.

In opening remarks, Gunter thanked Boutet for his exceptional leadership at the LRS, which included an Outstanding Unit Award and "Best Practice" recognition from Air Force Reserve Command. She also remarked that she was pleased Boutet and his wealth of knowledge would be staying with the unit as he moves from squadron command into the deputy command position with the group. Boutet was grateful for the kind words and gave all of the credit for his success to the members of the squadron.

"I couldn't be here without all of the hard work and sacrifice of the men and women of the LRS," said Boutet. "You have shown amazing dedication and service to our country and there are many of you I wouldn't want to travel without, even if it's across base."

Lt. Col. Boutet was rendered a final salute by the squadron as they stood in formation, a sign of respect for both out-going and incoming commanders.

Not new to squadron command, Lt. Col. Kip Schlum has most recently led the 944th Security Forces Squadron here. He has experience as both a transportation officer and as a maintenance officer within the wing, and has served on both Active Duty and as a Reservist; experience that makes him a good fit for his current position according to Gunter.

"He brings a unique and diverse background to command that will aid the squadron on its continued direction of success," said Gunter. "I have been extremely impressed with his capabilities."
The group commander went on to say Schlum has a blend of skill, confidence, and humor that when added to his down-to-earth personality makes him a perfect for the Mission Support Group.
As Lt. Col. Schlum accepted command, those in attendance got a taste of his sense of humor. He jokingly told the audience in Spanish he would keep his remarks short as he suspected some were out late celebrating Cinco de Mayo. In English, he thanked members of the 944th Security Forces Squadron for their outstanding service and many fond memories. He explained to the audience his credentials for his new assignment were actually earned in childhood.

"Vehicle maintenance I learned as a kid. I remember distinctly, playing with my Tonka trucks in the desert, when rocks would suddenly start raining down upon me from above. There was my brother with his buddies trying to destroy my fleet of vehicles. At least they said they were aiming for the trucks, but I would have to quickly scrounge up what vehicles I could, under fire mind you, for repair in a safe location," joked the commander.

The commander went on to mention vehicle operations, traffic management, fuels, and supply, were originally practiced by him in high school, college, and as a young newcomer to Active Duty. Planning, however, he learned from "herding cats."

It was a light-hearted, welcome introduction to the commander in an otherwise serious ceremony steeped in tradition.

"He is a well-educated, well-rounded officer and extremely well-equipped for this leadership position," said Col. Gunter. "I'm looking forward to our next year as we chart new successes for the group."

In his civilian employment, Kip Schlum is an operations and training officer with the Glendale Police Department, working the Emergency Management Division. He has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Aeronautical Science, from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott, Arizona. He is a native of the Phoenix area, where he now lives with his wife Aaron and their daughter Genevieve.