McDaniel takes command of 92nd Air Refueling Wing

by Staff Sgt. Veronica Montes
92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

7/25/2014 - FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash.  -- Col. Charles "Brian" McDaniel took command of the 92nd Air Refueling Wing during a ceremony here July 25, becoming the new leader of Fairchild's host wing that provides responsive, precise aerial refueling and operational support for the full range of military missions.

McDaniel comes to Team Fairchild from Kadena Air Base, Japan, where he served as vice commander of the 18th Wing, the largest combat wing in the U.S. Air Force.

"To the men and women of the 92nd ARW, I am excited to be your new wing commander, but, like I mentioned earlier, I am also humbled," McDaniel said. "This wing has a great reputation in Air Mobility Command and around the world. This did not just happen by chance, it happened because of the hard work and dedication that each and every one of you has shown, and I believe will continue to show."

Lt. Gen. Carlton D. Everhart II, 18th Air Force commander, presided over the ceremony and shared his excitement for the base and the community.

"We're saying goodbye to an outstanding leader and welcoming another outstanding leader," Everhart said. "Brian, you have my full faith and confidence as you take command. I know the support of this amazing community, and you and your team will continue to do good things in this nation."

McDaniel graduated from the University of Tennessee and received his pilot wings at Vance Air Force Base, Oklahoma.

He is married to his wife, Deborah, and is the proud father of two girls, Helen and Marlee. He and his family are excited to be serving in the Inland Northwest.

"To the men and women of the 141st ARW and partner units, I look forward to working with you and taking Team Fairchild to new heights," he said. "Together, we can accomplish anything. This Wing has a long and proud history. Now, it is our time to build on that. Our nation needs our capabilities now more than ever."

McDaniel succeeds Col. Brian Newberry, who has served as the wing's commander since Aug. 6, 2012.

"Team Fairchild, I hope you know you are a rich, rich base and our nation is the beneficiary," said Newberry. "Continue to soar and support Col. McDaniel with your passion, showing your focused commitment to both our core values and respect and dignity. Freedom remains under attack across the globe and we must respond as we always do, to secure our liberties for our posterity. I salute you 92nd--my family and I are better for knowing you. You are first class."