New Commander

In the time-honored military tradition signifying assumption of command, Col. Jon Klaus, 6th Operations Group commander, passes the 91st Air Refueling Squadron guidon to Lt. Col. Brian Smith. Colonel Smith assumed command of the 91st ARS Apr. 3 here. Colonel Smith was the previous chief of the 6th Air Mobility Wing Safety office. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Linzi Joseph)

91st ARS gets new commander

Published April 23, 2009
By Public Affairs staff
6th Air Mobility Wing

MacDill AFB, Fl -- What do you expect of the Airmen under your command?
I expect continued mission excellence through high standards of personal and professional discipline. I want them to be consistent performers with balanced lives and good attitudes.

Who are your favorite leaders and role models?
The leader is Gen. Colin Powell for his long and distinguished service to our military and country. The role model is my father, Lloyd Smith, for his life of simple service to our country, his career and my family.

What does it mean to you to be the 91st Air Refueling Squadron commander?
It means continuing loyalty to our great Air Force but from a new perspective--one in which I hope to positively impact the lives of our squadron members and their families.

When you hold your first commander's call, what is the first thing you are going to
tell your Airmen?
I will tell them that consistency plus balance equals trust. The trust is an absolute requirement for the mission, but the consistency and balance piece is largely up to them. I hope they always keep a smile on their face while keeping a sense of humor and a sense of family.

What are your thoughts about MacDill and living in Tampa?
I have been amazed at the size of the base, yet it still feels like a small home town. The weather and the activities are hard to find everywhere else. We look forward to getting to know the great people and the great area.