944th Operations Group receives new commander

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Susan Stout
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  Hangar 999 was full of distinguished guests, friends and family members in attendance for the 944th Operations Group change of command ceremony Sept. 11. 

Col. Michael Popovich, 944th Fighter Wing commander, served as the presiding officer during the ceremony where Lt. Col. Dave Davis relinquished command to Lt. Col. David Garfield. 

The crowd bowed their heads in a moment of silence to remember those who risked their lives and those who paid the ultimate sacrifice eight years earlier at the hands of terrorist attacks. Colonel Popovich recognized those who continue to serve in harm's way on the anniversary of Sept. 11, 2001. 

The 944th Fighter Wing welcomed Colonel Garfield, who previously served as director of operations at the 457th Fighter Squadron at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base, Texas. 

A command pilot with more than 4,300 flying hours and 506 combat hours, Colonel Garfield is responsible for the aviation actions of 75 active and Reserve instructor pilots assigned to Luke. He works with his active duty counterpart to ensure the upgrading pilots are ready to meet the requirements of the combat air forces. 

The 944th Operations Group and Fighter Wing is tasked to support worldwide mobility and combat employment operations in conjunction with supporting the Air Education and Training Command mission to train F-16 pilots for the United States Air Force, Air Force Reserve, Air National Guard and other participating nations. 

Colonel Garfield said his goals for the 944th OG are simple. 

"Mission first, people always, and have fun," he said. "Our most precious resource is our people. The mission cannot get done for long if our people are not motivated." 

His vow to take care of the wing's members and their families was received with approving looks in the audience. 

"I commit to providing opportunities for their personal and professional growth and working to ensure that our program is a win-win for local employers and the units we support," he said. 

Colonel Garfield attributed his success and dedicated the day to his parents. 

"This day isn't all about me," he said. "Both of (my parents) were born during the depression, a product of the 'greatest generation'. He, a young strappin' man from the big city of Canton, Ohio, a member of the 1942 National Championship Football team of the 'THE' Ohio State University, and a veteran of World War II. She a young, spirited gal, cheerleader type, from the nearby sprawling town of Louisville. These two individuals, my parents, have been married for 58 years this past 4th of July. Mom, Dad, this day is for you."