Courtland returns to lead Gateway Wing

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Sadie A. Largent
  • 37th Training Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas --  

Col. Kellie S. Courtland assumed command of the 37th Training Wing from Col. Willie L. Cooper III during a ceremony at the Pfingston Reception Center May 29.

Courtland returns to the wing where she previously served as a flight commander and master military training instructor, bringing firsthand experience in the mission she now leads.

Maj. Gen. Wolfe Davidson, 2nd Air Force commander, presided over the ceremony, emphasizing the significance of the wing’s mission while recognizing Cooper’s leadership and the lasting impact of his tenure leading the Air Force’s largest and most diverse training wing.

“Col. Cooper has led with precision,” said Davidson. “He is focused each and every day on how to leverage his resources effectively and efficiently. He’s led to ensure that all our personnel are treated with dignity and respect every day that we come to work, and he continued to improve the capabilities of this machine.”

Cooper led the wing through one of the most significant periods of transformation since 1950, producing more than 89,000 mission-ready graduates while advancing initiatives that strengthen readiness across Basic Military Training, technical training, and international partnerships. His leadership helped secure multiple inspection successes and modernized training across the enterprise.  

Following the presentation of the Legion of Merit, Cooper addressed Airmen, Guardians, and partners of the wing, expressing his gratitude for their support throughout his tenure.  

“To my friends, and to the Warhawks,” said Cooper. “The words, behaviors, and actions of these past 709 days were aimed at two things. For the folks who love me, I hope I proved you right. And for the Warhawks, I hope I have made you proud.”

The formal passing of the guidon symbolized the transfer of authority and responsibility, as Cooper stated, “Sir, I relinquish command.”

Davidson then passed the guidon to Courtland, who affirmed, “Sir, I assume command.”

Introducing Courtland as the wing’s new commander, Davidson highlighted her experience and readiness to lead the Gateway Wing into her next chapter.

“Col. Courtland knows how to execute this mission,” said Davidson. “She served as a flight commander and a master military training instructor in the 737th executing operations right here in Basic Military Training. We could not have found a more qualified and capable officer to come command the 37th Training Wing.”

In her first address as a commander, Courtland paid tribute to her roots at the Gateway Wing and emphasized her commitment to taking the reins and executing the mission. 

“I walked these grounds as an Airman Basic nearly 37 years ago. The 37th Training Wing has been my foundation and coming here literally feels like coming home,” said Courtland. “As your commander, I commit to listening, learning and leading. I commit to taking care of our Airmen, Guardians, families, and civilians, while relentlessly driving mission excellence and steadying the path.”

As commander, Courtland leads the Air Force’s largest training wing, responsible for Basic Military Training, technical training, medical training, and international and language programs supporting the joint force and partner nations worldwide.

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