New commander takes reins of 39 MXG

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Heather Stanton
  • 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey --  Col. Eric Gates assumed command of the 39th Maintenance Group from Col. John Taylor during a ceremony in Hangar 4 Aug. 11. 

Colonel Gates served as the 332nd Expeditionary Maintenance Group commander, Joint Base Balad, Iraq, during his previous assignment. 

Col. Phil McDaniel, 39th Air Base Wing commander, presided over the ceremony where he not only welcomed Colonel Gates and his family, but also recognized Colonel Taylor for multiple accomplishments while at Incirlik. 

"We are saying goodbye to a trusted friend and commander," said Colonel McDaniel. "You have done an outstanding job and have led the men and women of the 39th Maintenance Group to amazing heights. Thanks for making it happen." 

During his tenure, Colonel Taylor led the 39 MXG through eight inspections, including four United States Air Forces in Europe inspections and a Unit Compliance Inspection, all with zero critical or major findings. He also was the lead in removing 3.8 million pounds of munitions from Incirlik in three months time. 

During his farewell speech, Colonel Taylor thanked Team Incirlik and especially the men and women of the 39 MXG for their hard work. 

"This has been the best and most rewarding assignment, both personally and professionally," he said. "You are the finest maintainers in the U.S. Air Force. Thank you for your commitment to the 39th Maintenance Group and your dedication to each other." 

After exchanging the guidon, Colonel Gates addressed the group and spoke of his excitement for the tasks ahead. 

"It is truly an honor to be a part of the unique set of missions at Incirlik," said Colonel Gates. "I will put my faith in the Airmen I walk side-by-side with to accomplish the mission. I look forward to the challenges and building on Colonel Taylor's accomplishments." 

Incirlik is Colonel Gates' 14th assignment during his 24-year career. 

Colonel Gates entered the Air Force through the ROTC program at the University of Maryland in 1984, where he also earned a Bachelor of Science in Government and Politics. 

Among his assignments, Colonel Gates served as: chief of the Surety Inspection section, Headquarters USAFE, Ramstein Air Base, Germany; maintenance supervisor and commander, 28th Munitions Squadron, Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D.; and deputy chief, Integrated Resources Division, European Plans and Operations Center, Headquarters European Command, Stuttgart, Germany.