New commander takes reigns of 161st ARW

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  • 161st Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
The hangar was full of distinguished guests, friends and family members in attendance for the 161st Air Refueling Wing Change of Command ceremony here Aug. 4, 2012.

Brig. Gen. Michael G. Colangelo, Commander, Arizona Air National Guard, served as the presiding officer during the ceremony where Col. Steven M. Balser relinquished command to Col. Gary D. Brewer Jr.

The 161st ARW welcomed Colonel Brewer, who previously served as Commander of the 161st Maintenance Group.

A command pilot with more than 5,500 flying hours, Colonel Brewer has flown missions in support of Operations Desert Shield, Northern Watch, Southern Watch, Deny Flight, Allied Force, Noble Eagle, Enduring Freedom, Odyssey Dawn and Unified Protector.