403rd Wing Commander Highlights Leadership Changes, Readiness, and Resiliency

Col. Jaret T. Fish, 403rd Wing commander, hosted two commander’s calls Sept. 7, where he highlighted leadership transitions, mission readiness, and the importance of resilience as the wing prepares for an upcoming Combat Readiness Inspection.

Fish opened by sharing a letter of appreciation from National Hurricane Center Director Mike Brennan, who thanked the wing for its role in supporting operations during Hurricane Erin earlier this season.

“It cannot be overstated how valuable the mission of the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron and the 403rd Wing is to national forecasting,” Fish said. “Every member of this wing plays a role in making that mission happen.”

Looking ahead, he emphasized the significance of the Combat Readiness Inspection, scheduled for Oct. 18–26 at the Savannah Air Dominance Center, Georgia. More than 380 Airmen will deploy for the exercise, which will test the wing’s ability to operate in a contingency environment.

“This will be the first time in years we send such a large force off-station for a full-scale inspection,” Fish said. “It’s a chance to show not just inspectors, but ourselves, that we’re ready for the mission. My priorities are simple—do your job, do it safely, and maintain a positive attitude.”

Senior Master Sgt. Alex Cruz, 403rd Wing Inspector General Inspections, expanded on inspection requirements and expectations, encouraging participants to focus on performing their duties as trained.

“You know your jobs, so treat this as business as usual,” Cruz said. “If you stay safe and follow guidance, we will have a successful inspection.”

The wing commander also introduced several new leaders across the wing, underscoring how transitions strengthen the organization. Lt. Col. Steven Pituch was named the incoming 403rd Operations Group commander, Col. Stuart Martin assumed command of the 403rd Maintenance Group Sept. 6, and Col. Clinton Cash will take command of the 403rd Mission Support Group later this month. He also welcomed Col. Richard J. Konopczynski III as the wing’s new deputy commander.

The enlisted force is also experiencing transition. Chief Master Sgt. David Jackson, the outgoing command chief, will depart for Air Force Global Strike Command. His successor, Chief Master Sgt. Tige “Tiger” Platt, said he is honored to join the wing.

“Chief Jackson leaves big shoes to fill, but I’m excited to be here,” Platt said. “I ask that you hold me accountable as I get to know the wing and its mission. Together, we’ll continue to build on the strong foundation already in place.”

Jackson, in his farewell remarks, reminded Airmen that the key to navigating change is unity and preparation.

“Leadership changes happen all the time,” he said. “What matters is that you take care of each other and do your jobs. If you train hard and focus here, you’ll be ready anywhere—whether it’s in Savannah or downrange.”

Resiliency was another focus of the commander’s call, with September recognized as Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month. Master Sgt. Jared Bryant, 403rd Wing Resiliency Integrator and First Sergeant, encouraged Airmen to value and recognize one another through peer-to-peer and supervisor awards.

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“We’re social creatures, and we need those connections,” he said. “Taking the time to recognize when someone is doing something great can make all the difference.”

Mary Ruffin, licensed clinical social worker and Director of Psychological Health, built on that message by stressing that resilience is developed through everyday challenges.

“It’s not the fight itself that’s toughest—it’s the preparation,” she said. “Like athletes training for competition, you strengthen resilience by tackling daily struggles and leaning on your team. If you ever feel alone in the fight, reach out—support is here.”

Additional briefings reinforced readiness and safety. Lt. Col. Sean Cross, 403rd Wing chief of safety, encouraged members to use the SAFEREP reporting app and reminded motorcycle riders to register with the safety office to ensure they receive training that could save their lives.

Maj. C.W. Lemoine, 403rd Wing Inspector General, also remined Airmen of their right to access the IG without fear of reprisal.

“No one can restrict your access to the IG, and you can always come to us confidentially, even anonymously if needed,” he said.

Fish closed the commander’s calls by thanking Airmen for their professionalism and commitment.

“The 403rd Wing is unique because we do it all,” he said. “Every day, you’re grinding it out and making the mission happen. I’m proud to serve alongside you, and I know you’ll continue to demonstrate excellence as we move forward together.”

The wing’s quarterly award winners were also recognized for their achievements. First quarter honorees were:

• Field Grade Officer: Lt. Col. Mark Grunsky, 403rd Operations Support Squadron
• Company Grade Officer: 2nd Lt. Brett Hoggatt, 36th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron
• Senior Noncommissioned Officer: Master Sgt. Glenda McQuirter, 403rd Operations Group
• Noncommissioned Officer: Staff Sgt. Cayman J. Ruffin, 41st Aerial Port Squadron
• Airman: Senior Airman Nicholas J. Andrews, 803rd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron
• Team: Fuels Management Flight – Petroleum, Oils and Lubricants

Second quarter winners were:

• Field Grade Officer: Lt. Col. David Gentile, 403rd Operations Support Squadron
• Company Grade Officer: Capt. Eric Abromitis, 403rd Operations Support Squadron
• Senior Noncommissioned Officer: Senior Master Sgt. Joshua Finkelstein, 5th Operational Weather Flight
• Noncommissioned Officer: Staff Sgt. Breanna Girdner, 41st Aerial Port Squadron
• Airman: Senior Airman Manly Cazedessus, 815th Airlift Squadron
• Team: 5th Operational Weather Flight Deployed Team