Aviation Detachment in Poland receives a new commander

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Kyle Gese
  • 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs
A change of command took place for Detachment 1, 52nd Operations Group at Lask Air Base, Poland, Sept. 18, 2014.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Matthew Spears relinquished command to U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Jack Harman after serving two years as the commander for the detachment.

"You've dedicated a year of your lives to improve the mission to increase NATO interoperability, support regional security and build a lasting impression on such a key area of the world," Harman said. "I look forward to working with you and our professional colleagues to continue building partner capacity."

U.S. Air Force Aviation Detachment in Poland, or Av-Det, is a nine-person team that facilitates the U.S. Air Force service members and aircraft in Poland. They continually train with Polish air forces to strengthen bilateral ties and increase interoperability.

Their recent involvement in Exercises Eagle Talon and BALTOPS 14 in June 2014 served among many training opportunities aimed at fostering NATO partnerships and bolstering readiness for U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces in Africa's forward, ready, now priority. The detachment completes four annual rotations primarily of F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter aircraft but also include C-130 Hercules cargo aircraft.

Harman shared his gratitude to his predecessor for creating the foundation as the first commander of the detachment upon assuming command. As for the next year, he will continue to establish a constant presence in Europe and execute the mission to foster bilateral defense ties, enhance regional security, and increase interoperability among NATO allies.