Muscatell Assumes Command of 403rd Wing; Moss Retires

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Tabitha Dupas
  • 403rd WG/PA
KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --  Col. James J. Muscatell assumed command of the 403rd Wing from Brig. Gen. Richard Moss during a change-of-command ceremony held here Jan. 11. 

The ceremony was unique in that it also celebrated the retirement of General Moss, who had served as 403rd Wing commander since July 2004 and has 38 years of Air Force service. He was also presented with the Legion of Merit Award (second oak leaf cluster) during the ceremony. 

Colonel Muscatell recognized the accomplishments of General Moss and hopes to continue building upon the foundation of those who came before him. 

"I stand here today, not because of my accomplishments, but because of those I have worked with," said Colonel Muscatell. "I've been blessed to be their servant." 

Colonel Muscatell was previously commander of the 302nd Airlift Wing at Peterson Air Force Base, Colo., which had a tactical airlift mission involving the C-130H model. For nearly three years, he was responsible for overseeing more than 1,300 reservists. 

"The 403rd Wing has such a great reputation," said Colonel Muscatell, who attended elementary school here in Biloxi. "In a way it's like coming back home. Nancy and I look forward to becoming a part of and serving the 403rd family." 

General Moss thanked the local civic leaders who attended the event. 

"The support we have in the community is outstanding, the best relationship I've experienced in my four commands," said General Moss.  "It's something I'll never forget. Because we enjoyed our time here, Suzy (his wife) and I have decided to stay and become members of the community." 

General Moss recounted the many challenges the wing faced throughout his command, particularly Hurricane Katrina. 

He commended the wing for its determination in rebuilding from Hurricane Katrina, the most devastating natural disaster in U.S. history. 

"We can do it," he said. "No matter what happens, we will prevail. Nothing will get us down because we are determined. 

"So, Jim, you are getting a great wing -- a wing that can do anything."