CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C –
The 437th Aerial Port Squadron welcomed a new commander during a change of command ceremony here July 18.
Lt. Col. Robert Neal, former Joint Mobility Operations Officer and Sustainment Branch chief of operations and plans directorate, U.S. Transportation Command, Scott AFB, Ill., replaced Lt. Col. John Pepin. Colonel Pepin will go on to be a student at the Air War College at Maxwell AFB, Ala.
Colonel Neal was born in Slidell, La., and later received his Bachelor of Arts degree in economics from Southeastern Louisiana University. He was commissioned into the Air Force in 1994 through the Officer Training School at Maxwell AFB, AL. In 1999 he earned a Masters of Science Degree in Logistics Management from the Air Force Institute of Technology.
Since joining the Air Force, he has been stationed at several other bases, but this is his first assignment to Charleston AFB.
"I am excited to join team Charleston and lead the best aerial port squadron in the Air Force," said Colonel Neal. "I want to learn the mission and identify new mission opportunities for the squadron."
As the new commander of the 437 APS, he said his initial plans are to continue being the benchmark aerial port squadron in the Air Force, along with setting high standards and showcasing the capabilities of the squadron, group and wing.
What is your favorite movie?
"Taps"
What is your major pet peeve?
Not adhering to customs and courtesies. The is one of the areas that separates the military and civilian sector.
What is your favorite quote?
"Do what you can, with what you have, where you are." -- Theodore Roosevelt.
Why did you join the Air Force?
I wanted to support and defend my country.
How would you describe your leadership style?
Situational but participative. Leaders should include their team members in the decision-making process.
Who is your role model and why?
My high school track coach, Coach Woodworth. He always demanded the very best of you whether it was practice or real, and he continually motivated you.
What was your most memorable assignment and why?
My last assignment as USTRANSCOM because I was able to see the deployment picture from the strategic view which allowed me to see how all the pieces of a large-scale deployment fit together. It also allowed me to see how the other services perform their deployment mission.