OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. -- The 1st Weather Group welcomed a new commander during a socially-distanced ceremony July 24, 2020, in the Chief Master Sgt. Peter Moore auditorium.
As part of the ceremony, Col. Travis Steen relinquished command of the 1st WXG and Col. Bradley Stebbins assumed command.
The ceremony was officiated by Col. Patrick Williams, 557th Weather Wing commander.
“(Steen), you took 1st WXG to new heights,” Williams said. “You challenged the squadrons to do their best and they shined under your leadership – thank you.”
Williams also took the time to welcome Stebbins to the 557th WW and the 1st WXG.
“Col. Stebbins has a distinguished and international background that will serve the 1st WXG very well,” Williams said. “(He) has a very good grasp of international affairs and how to work with allies, senior and international leaders against a common threat.”
The 1st WXG is comprised of six operational weather squadrons providing timely, accurate and relevant weather operations around the clock in support of joint warfighters worldwide. Each squadron produces decision-quality weather forecasts and environmental threat assessments for aviation and ground forces tasked to fulfill specific geographic combatant command, service component and international partner operations.
“It is truly amazing what this group has accomplished in two years,” said Steen. “Undertaking the first major reorganization of the Operational Weather Squadrons since their inception.”
Stebbins is coming to the 1st WXG from NATO Headquarters in Belgium where he served as NATO’s U.S. Meteorological and Oceanographic representative.
“To the Airmen, both uniformed and (civilian) of the 1st WXG, as well as our shipmates at the U.S. Navy aviation detachments – thank you. You are the reason we are here today,” said Stebbins. “I am both humbled and proud to serve as your commander.
“These are challenging but not unprecedented times. The U.S. military has faced similar challenges in the past but through strong, compassionate leadership at all levels … the military has overcome great obstacles guided by our core values of Integrity, Service and Excellence. We will lead our way through this time of dignity and respect for all.”