Gen Roberson assumes command of 3rd AF

by Staff Sgt. Ryan Crane
U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa

6/11/2014 - RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany -- Lt. Gen. Darryl Roberson assumed command of 3rd Air Force during a ceremony at Ramstein Air Base, Germany June 11, 2014.

Gen. Frank Gorenc, U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa commander, presided over the ceremony and expressed appreciation for the hard work and dedication the Airmen of 3rd Air Force have displayed over the past two years.

"They have enabled over 24,000 combat hours," said Gorenc, "which has allowed the command to project airpower for six combatant commands over 104 countries, proving that we are forward, we are ready, and we are ready now."

Gorenc went on to welcome Roberson and his family to the command position.

"We turn the page on yet another chapter in the history of this outstanding unit," said Gorenc. "The Air Force has another fantastic leader in the bullpen, and we are excited to have General Roberson as the commander. I am completely confident you and Cheryl will lead 3rd Air Force to new heights."

Roberson comes to 3rd Air Force from his previous assignment as the vice director of operations on the joint staff in Washington, D.C. However, this is not his first time in Europe. Roberson was previously the 52nd Fighter Wing commander at Spangdahlem Air Base from 2006-2008. But his first experience in Europe was in 1985 while he was assigned to Ramstein flying F-4 Phantoms in the 526th Tactical Fighter Squadron, then again flying the same plane at Spangdahlem in the 480th TFS.

"It is a great honor and pleasure to take control of 3rd Air Force," said Roberson. "Our mission is clear: To be ready now, to answer the call for airpower."

The general explained that the 3rd Air Force needs to be ready to direct assigned air forces and build partnership capacity with coalition partners. He also spoke of the challenges the Air Force is facing in the current austere fiscal environment.

"Together with our allies and partners, our friends, there is no challenge that is going to be presented to 3rd Air Force that we won't overcome," he said.

Roberson ended his remarks by expressing his gratitude to the men and women of 3rd Air Force.

"It is truly my honor to be your commander," said Roberson. "Together we will confront many challenges, but it will be your talents, capabilities and your innovation that is going to make us successful. Remember our priorities: mission, Airmen, innovation."