New commander challenges Panthers to continue excellence

  • Published
  • 460th Space Wing Public Affairs
Col. John Wagner addressed members of the 460th Space Wing in his first commander's call June 18 on base.

Wagner used the opportunity to recognize the achievements of 460th SW members, introduce himself personally to Team Buckley, deliver his expectations of both himself and the wing, and communicate his priorities and intent as the new wing commander.

Emphasizing the value of recognizing 460th SW member achievements, Wagner took time to congratulate three Team Buckley members for their excellence.

"It is an honor to be in front of not only the Panthers, but the award-winning Panthers," expressed Wagner.

Airman 1st Class Amanda Belarde, 460th SW paralegal; Staff Sgt. Diana Fishman, Buckley Honor Guard NCOIC; and Senior Airman Connor Maclean, 460th Operations Support Squadron instructor won the Senior Airman Christopher Mansfield Award, the 2013 Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Honor Guard Award and the 2013 Enlisted Space Operator of the Year Award, respectively.

A Michigan native, Wagner talked to the audience about his military and Air Force connection, along with his hobbies and his family, urging audience members to enjoy Colorado and the community to the fullest.

"We have an awesome, inspirational base, great location and great things to do," Wagner said. "So hopefully you're all smiling. If you're not, we're going to find out why and we're going to fix it."

A 1991 graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy and a career space officer, Wagner went on to detail his professional experience before telling audience members what they should expect of him, underscoring clear communication, empowerment and transparency.

Wagner promised the wing his "unqualified support" from the group commanders down and an "intense interest" in the people of the 460th.

In return for this support, Wagner asked the wing to meet his expectations including proactively improving their work and surroundings, personal and professional planning for the future, rewarding outstanding performers, and leading the world in both mission and installation excellence.

"We can't do this by ourselves," Wagner explained. "Small base, small team, big mission. We all count on each other."

In his closing remarks, Wagner challenged members of the 460th SW to make sound decisions, think through problems, communicate effectively and treat each other as professionals.

He reminded Team Buckley the importance of taking care of themselves, their families, and one another--something he said defined the Panthers.