CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
The 437th Force Support Squadron welcomed a new commander during a change of command ceremony June 30 at the Charleston Club.
Maj. Tara White, the former Human Resources Branch Chief, Integrated Resources Division, European Plans and Operations Center, Headquarters European Command, Stuttgart, Germany, replaced Lt. Col. John Silverman as commander.
Colonel Silverman will become the 21st Force Support Squadron commander at Peterson AFB, Colo.
Major White graduated from the University of South Carolina, with a Bachelor of Science and was commissioned into the Air Force through the Reserve Officer Training Corps in 1996.
What jobs did you perform before you became commander?
I spent the last two years at Headquarters, European Command in Stuttgart, Germany; first, as the chief of protocol, working countless high-visibility events for a four-star general, and second, working in the operations directorate as the human resources branch chief in the integrated resources division, which is responsible for all personnel actions for 346 joint warriors.
What are your initial plans as the new commander?
The 437 FSS has been climbing a long hill with one success after another ... I intend to continue what my predecessor started. Additionally, we are already preparing for approximately 40 Airmen to gear up and deploy in the Air and Space Expeditionary Force buckets one and two. I intend to ensure they have all they need and their families are taken care of while deployed.
What is the goal and mission of your agency?
The goal is superior customer support ... the mission is taking care of people.
What are your expectations of your Airmen?
I expect my Airmen to always be professional, passionate about what they do and be proud to serve.
What was your most memorable assignment and why?
My most memorable assignment was my three years in Hawaii. As a squadron section commander, we worked hard but there was nothing keeping you down when you could walk outside, the trade winds were blowing and the air was full of "aloha;" if I could only have captured it in a bottle for use on any and all days thereafter.
What is an interesting fact about you?
I am a native of the area, I graduated from Summerville High School and never dreamed I'd land an assignment to Charleston. I'm excited to be "home."
What is your favorite movie?
Shawshank Redemption
What is one of your biggest pet peeves?
People who drive and lolly-gag in the left lane.
What is your favorite quote?
"Work hard, play hard," and I always add, "while having fun."
Who is your role model and why?
Maj. Gen. MaryKay Hertog, [who was recently selected for reassignment as the 2nd Air Force commander, Keesler AFB, Miss.] She is a fantastic leader, officer and professional. General Hertog is charismatic in everything she does, and Airmen want to follow her. She is a true example of what every officer should aspire to.