Camerer takes command of 37th TRW

  • Published
  • By Mike Joseph
  • Senior Writer
JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas -- A command pilot with more than 3,500 hours of flight experience took charge of the 37th Training Wing during a formal change of command ceremony Tuesday morning at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland.

With Maj. Gen. Leonard Patrick, 2nd Air Force commander, as presiding official, Col. Mark D. Camerer took command of the largest training mission of its kind in the Air Force. He replaces Col. Eric Axelbank, who is headed to a new assignment at Headquarters Air Force, Washington, D.C.

"It's a big job, a tough job," Patrick told an estimated 250 people who attended the ceremony, as he recalled his experience as a former 37th TRW commander. "Eric spent nights, weekends and holidays working the job. He was a great wingman."
 
Looking toward the future, Patrick cited Camerer's attributes as he new wing commander.

"He's experienced, he's the right guy," Patrick said. "We're proud to have him."
Axelbank also had high praise for Camerer.

"The Warhawks are getting a world-class professional and a very experienced leader. I'm excited for the wing and the things Colonel Camerer is going to bring to the organization," he said.

Camerer takes over the 37th TRW after spending the past 18 months leading the 436th Airlift Wing, Dover Air Force Base, Del.

As the 436th AW commander, Camerer was responsible for the combined C-5 Galaxy and C-17 Globemaster III organization that provides worldwide airlift of high-priority personnel and cargo. Dover is also home to the Charles C. Carson Center for Mortuary Affairs, the Department of Defense's largest aerial port, and the Air Mobility Command
Museum.

"I am thankful for the opportunity," Camerer said to Patrick. "I will honor your trust and prove myself worthy of your confidence."

Addressing other senior leaders and mission partners in attendance, Camerer said he would work tirelessly to ensure the wing is organized, trained and equipped to properly execute individual and unit missions.

"My service to you is my greatest responsibility," he said. "Together, we will serve our nation with honor and respect. Together, we will develop Airmen.
 
"Together, we are more than the Gateway to the Air Force. We are the unit that provides the people with the Air Force spirit that ensures we have the capability to 'Fly, Fight, Win.'"