Breedlove Takes Charge of USAFE

Gen. Philip Breedlove assumed command of US Air Forces in Europe from Gen. Mark Welsh during a ceremony at Ramstein AB, Germany. Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz presided over the July 31 change-of-command ceremony. “We look forward to your incredible leadership—to your mission-first people-always approach, which emphasizes empowerment and inspires success, all the while demanding performance,” said Schwartz of Breedlove, who served from January 2011 as vice chief of staff. “I’m glad to be back,” Breedlove told the gathered airmen and NATO guests upon taking charge. “I look forward to working with you as we continue to shape NATO airpower to support our joint force.” Breedlove has spent nearly one-third of his 35-year Air Force career in Europe, with assignments in Germany, Italy, and Spain. Most recently, he led 3rd Air Force at Ramstein from July 2008 to August 2009. Welsh is the nominee to replace Schwartz as Chief of Staff. Welsh is waiting on the hold on his nomination to lift so that the Senate may decide whether to confirm him for the post. (Ramstein report by MSgt. Brian Bahret)