BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- The 307th Bomb Wing hosted the 707th Maintenance Squadron’s assumption of command ceremony here January 30, 2021.
Maj. Gary R. Jennings took command of the unit during the event.
Prior to becoming the 707th MXS commander, Jennings served as the unit’s operations officer. In that role, he was part of a Total Force Integration team responsible for the oversight of maintenance operations for 28, B-52 Stratofortress bombers and the U.S. Air Force Reserve Command’s nuclear-capable maintenance and munition functions.
Jennings deployed for Operation Inherent Resolve, providing support for various coalition aircraft for the U.S. and the U.K.
During his speech at the ceremony, Jennings thanked his active duty-counterparts, his civilian employer, and his family for their continued support. He also gave some insight into his leadership philosophy.
“Once you put that commander’s pin on, it really is no longer about you,” said Jennings. “It’s what you can do for your organization.”
Jennings told the audience that, although there has been a lot of division and strife throughout the country, his Airmen give him hope. He said they come from all walks of life, but they come together as wingmen to support and defend freedom for the U.S.
He charged the 707th Airmen with taking their experiences as Reserve Citizen Airmen back to their communities to help spark a positive culture change.
The new commander has more than 15 years of experience, having commissioned in 2006 and transitioned to the Air Force Reserve in 2011.