335th FS command passes to Johnson

by Airman Shawna L. Keyes
4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

5/6/2015 - SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- Lt. Col. Brandon Johnson assumed command of the 335th Fighter Squadron during a change of command ceremony, May 1.

Johnson accepted the guidon from Col. Brian Afflerbaugh, 4th Operations Group commander, and will now lead a squadron of more than 70 members.

"I'm humbled to be entrusted with the command of the 335th Fighter Squadron, and I pledge to do my best each and every day to take care of the Airmen and the families of the 'Chiefs'," Johnson said.

The 335th FS is a mix of six enlisted personnel and more than 65 officers, including pilots, weapons system officers, flight medicine providers, and intelligence personnel. The squadron is responsible for conducting air expeditionary operations worldwide in the F-15E Strike Eagle.

"I can only imagine the pride, that special feeling that Lt. Col. Johnson has today as he takes over the squadron in which he was initiated into fighter pilot culture," Afflerbaugh said during the ceremony. "What an awesome experience. You'll be sorely missed by the 'Lancers' (333rd Fighter Squadron), but I'm sure there is no one better to command the 'Chiefs.'"

Before returning his squadron's salute for the last time, Lt. Col. Todd Dyer, outgoing 335th FS commander, thanked his family and friends for their support during his command.

"To the men and women of the 335th Fighter Squadron, both past and present, Katy and I have been blessed to work with such an outstanding group of warriors for the past four and a half years that I've worn a green name tag," Dyer said. "The heritage in the 335th Fighter Squadron is unrivaled. Continue to add to that distinguished lineage every day."

Johnson thanked his family and friends, along with members of the 4th Fighter Wing, acknowledging the responsibility placed on him as commander.

"Men and women of the 'Chiefs,' it's an honor to return to the tribe," Johnson said. "I look forward to our squadron continuing its legacy of excellence and to serving alongside you."