CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
The 437th Maintenance Operations Squadron welcomed a new commander during a change of command ceremony here July 3.
Maj. James Blackman, former maintenance operations officer for 9th Aircraft Maintenance Unit, Beale AFB, Calif., replaced Maj. Stephen Sanders. Major Sanders went on to be a student at the Air Command and Staff College, Maxwell AFB, Ala.
"My assignment to Beale AFB was my most memorable one because of all the fantastic friends I made while stationed there," said Major Blackman.
Major Blackman was born and raised in San Diego and received his commission from the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps in 1997 upon graduation from San Diego State University, Calif. His first assignment was to Nellis AFB, Nev., and he has also been stationed at Yokota AB, Japan, and Beale AFB. This is his first time being assigned to Charleston AFB.
"I am very excited to be part of Team Charleston," said Major Blackman. "My initial plans as the new commander of the 437 MOS include getting to know the people in the squadron. I expect the members of this squadron to do their best every day, knowing that what they do matters."
The squadron coordinates activities of three maintenance squadrons, allocates common resources among them, and coordinates and executes maintenance activities related to C-17 aircraft. The squadron is responsible for budgeting, planning, real property management, training, manpower allocations and historical analysis for the wing's maintenance activities.
What is an interesting fact about yourself?
I play the guitar.
What is your favorite movie?
Star Wars (the first one in 1978).
Who is your favorite author?
Abraham Lincoln is one of my favorites.
What is your major pet peeve?
Littering.
What is your favorite quote?
"America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroyed ourselves." -- Abraham Lincoln
Why did you join the Air Force?
I like airplanes.
Who is your role model?
St. Gregory Thaumaturgus (Gregory the Wonderworker), a little known Christian bishop of the 3rd century.
How would you describe your leadership style?
Participative -- I prefer to include as much input as possible in the decision-making process.