DOBBINS AIR RESERVE BASE -- The 94th Airlift Wing welcomed back Brig. Gen. Richard L. Kemble as he returned to become the new wing commander.
Kemble first called the wing home from August 2010 to February 2014 when he held the position of vice commander.
“What a phenomenal wing,” said Kemble. “I thought you were good when I was the vice commander. I know you are great. We are the best in the 22nd and dare say probably the best in AFRC. I am so happy to get this opportunity to serve with each and every one of you.”
During an assumption of command ceremony held Jan. 6, 2018, Kemble began his new position at the wing after his most recent assignment as vice commander of 22nd Air Force, which he held since November 2015.
Presiding over the ceremony, Maj. Gen. Craig L. La Fave, commander of 22nd AF, spoke of Kemble’s leadership strengths.
“Throughout his career, he’s shown a propensity for exceptional and selfless leadership,” said La Fave. “He’s got a big heart and a big brain, so we’re glad he’s here. He’s going to do great as the wing commander.”
Kemble has held many positions in the Air Force since commissioning as a distinguished graduate of the University of South Carolina Reserve Officer Training Corps program in 1988.
“This is the third time that we’re bringing General Kemble back for a repeat performance in a leadership role,” said La Fave. “That’s pretty unusual, but not for a leader of his caliber.”
Prior to his assignment at 22nd AF, Kemble was assigned to Scott Air Force Base, Ill. as the Chief of Deployment Distribution Operations Center for U.S. Transportation Command.
La Fave and Kemble also recognized and thanked Col. James W. Kellogg, Jr., vice commander of the 94th AW, for his performance as commander over the past six months.
Kemble ended the ceremony with a challenge to the wing.
“The only thing I ask is that you look after one another and treat each other with respect and the mission will get done,” said Kemble. “There is no doubt in my mind that you are the best at what you do.”