Seventeenth Air Force welcomed a new commander June 28, 2010 as Brig. Gen. Margaret H. Woodward received the guidon in a change-of-command ceremony at Ramstein Air Base in Germany.

Woodward took charge of the organization, also known as Air Forces Africa for its role as the air component to U.S. Africa Command, from Major General Ronald R. Ladnier. Ladnier was 17 AF's commander since its reactivation in October 2008 and was slated to retire in a separate ceremony the same day.

U.S. Africa Command Commander Army General William E. "Kip" Ward presided, officiating the ceremony along with U.S. Air Forces in Europe Commander General Roger A. Brady.
Ward recognized the change of command as a milestone in the development of 17 AF, gave credit to the men and women of Air Forces Africa, especially their outgoing commander.

"This change of command ceremony marks a very substantial step in the maturation and creation of the Air Force's newest component command headquarters, and this happened under [General Ladnier's] leadership," Ward said. "It's now an energized, effective organization with over 300 airmen."

Emphasizing the importance of the mission, he said General Woodward was very qualified for the task at hand.

"Seventeenth Air Force and Air Forces Africa are strengthening existing relationships and expanding our network of partners on the continent, all in the name of development and stability, in a very important part of the world that has an impact on each of us, wherever we may be," Ward said, addressing Woodward. "There is no doubt in my mind that you are prepared and that you are the person for the job."

The new commander echoed Ward's emphasis on the mission, declaring her readiness to capitalize on the opportunity.

"I come to this command with the deepest respect for our mission. The opportunity to work with partners and friends across the African Continent to promote air access, safety and security is one of immense significance," she said. "You have my word that every day you allow me the privilege of command, our team will seek to turn today's challenges into tomorrow's opportunities, and work tirelessly to make extraordinary potential reality."

Woodward comes to 17 AF from 18th Air Force at Scott AFB, Ill., where she served as the vice commander. She has been selected for promotion to major general and will pin on the new rank in July.

A graduate of Arizona State University in 1982, she also holds an M.S. in Aviation Science (Embry-Riddle University) and an M.S. in National Security Strategy (National War College). She is a command pilot with more than 3,500 hours in various mobility aircraft.
Her previous command experience includes two refueling squadrons, an operations group and two mobility wings. The general also held staff positions in the Office of the Secretary of Defense and the Air Force Senior Leader Management Office, Washington, D.C.

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