CHARLESTON AIR FORCEB ASE, S.C. –
The 1st Combat Camera Squadron welcomed a new commander during a change of command ceremony July 1 at the Charleston Club.
Lt. Col. Aaron Burgstein, who is a recent graduate of the School of Advanced Air and Space Power at Maxwell AFB, Ala., where he earned his master's degree in Airpower Art and Science, replaced Lt. Col. Robyn Chumley as commander.
Colonel Chumley is now the Air and Education Training Center director of public affairs at Randolph AFB, Texas.
Colonel Burgstein graduated from Ursinus College, Pa., in 1994 with a degree in communications and a minor in english. He later completed his master's degree in Organizational Management through the University of Phoenix in 2003 and a Master Degree in National Security and Strategic Studies from the College of Naval Command and Staff, Navy War College, Newport, R.I., in 2008. Colonel Burgstein was commissioned into the Air Force through Officer Training School at Maxwell AFB, Ala., in 1995.
What jobs did you perform before you became commander?
My time prior to becoming a combat camera officer was spent in public affairs. I've spent time at the wings at Holloman AFB, Yokota Air Base and Kunsan AB as well as time at U.S. Air Forces Europe and the Pentagon. I was fortunate enough to spend a year working for a civilian company in New York City as part of the Education with Industry program, and I've spent the last two years in school, first at the College of Naval Command and Staff, Navy War College and then at the School of Advanced Air and Space Studies at Maxwell AFB.
What are your initial plans as the new commander?
My first goal is to get to know my Airmen and squadron. They're a fascinating group of motivated people doing an incredible mission.
What is the goal and mission of your agency?
The 1st Combat Camera Squadron is the only active-duty combat camera unit in the Air Force. Our Airmen provide combat documentation, both aerial and ground, to the president, secretary of defense, combatant commanders and senior Air Force and joint leadership. We are their eyes and ears in the field. We document, align information effects with national strategic objectives and visually capture operations from beginning to end.
What are your expectations of your Airmen?
I expect my Airmen to maintain the same high standards they've been upholding and to build upon that foundation. I'm also a big believer in integrity and dedication to the mission, and I expect the Airmen of combat camera are the same. Additionally, I think we work and fight better as a team, and I'm committed to ensuring we stay a strong team.
What was your most memorable assignment and why?
Despite the horror stories that seem to abound about the Pentagon, my time there was my most memorable, for two reasons. First, I served as the Secretary of the Air Force's personal public affairs officer and got the chance to witness some incredible things throughout the course of a fairly eventful time. Secondly, and more importantly, both of my daughters were born there.
What is an interesting fact about you?
While stationed in Japan, I climbed Mt. Fuji. Hiking back down was much worse.
What is your favorite movie?
I enjoy almost all types of movies, but my all-time favorite is Star Wars.
What is one of your biggest pet peeves?
Questions about my pet peeves.
What is your favorite quote?
I don't have a particularly favorite quote. Instead, I like to use quotes from just about any source, such as great leaders, people way smarter than me, or even movies, as the occasion warrants.
Who is your role model and why?
I have an ever-increasing number of role models. They're almost all friends and Airmen I've had the honor and privilege of serving with throughout my career. I feel that you can learn something from anyone, and my co-workers have certainly taught me a lot. They're the reason for my success.