Newest ACC wing welcomes new commander

325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

11/15/2012 - TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla.  -- Col. David Graff, previous 325th Fighter Wing vice commander, took command of the 325th FW from Brig. Gen. John K. McMullen in a change of command ceremony today.

"I am so honored and humbled to be standing here and taking command," Graff said. "General McMullen, you have put Tyndall on the right path. Providing air dominance for America is not negotiable, and as your vice, I feel you have prepared me to continue the mission."

Prior to arriving at Tyndall in July 2012, Graff attended the National War College, Ft. McNair, Washington, D.C. He received his Air Force commission through the Air Force Academy in 1993, and completed F-15C Eagle initial qualification training at Tyndall in 1995. The colonel returned to Tyndall in 1998 and served as an instructor pilot and weapons officer in the then -- 2nd Fighter Squadron until 1999.

Officiating today's ceremony was Maj. Gen. Lawrence Wells, Ninth Air Force commander, Shaw Air Force Base, S.C, which is comprised of eight active-duty wings, including the 325th FW, and two direct reporting units all located in the Southeastern U.S.

"'Sir, I assume command,' are four of the sweetest words any officer will ever say, and 'Sir, I relinquish command,' are four of the most painful words an officer will ever say," said Wells. "Colonel Graff, you are well prepared to lead the 325th FW. General, you and Mrs. McMullen will both be missed."

McMullen and his family are headed to Ramstein Air Base, Germany. The general will fill the position of Deputy Chief of Staff Operations at North Atlantic Treaty Organization's Headquarters Allied Air Command.

"It seems like yesterday that I was standing on this stage getting ready to take command, and assume the responsibility of guiding these Airmen," McMullen said. "It has been an honor to lead these great Airmen standing before us. I can't thank you enough for this opportunity. Kim and I have absolutely loved every moment of this assignment. We love the mission, the area, and most importantly we love the people. I wish you all the best."

The 325th FW, with the mission to train and project unrivaled combat power, consists of more than 4,000 personnel who train F-22 Raptor pilots, intelligence officers, maintainers and other specialties. Tyndall is host to numerous tenant units, and supports 23,000 Airmen, civilians, contractors and their families. Additionally, Tyndall has more than $570 million in local economic impact.