CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
The 16th Airlift Squadron welcomed a new commander during a change of command ceremony May 22 here.
Lt. Col. Christopher Mann, former 14th Airlift Squadron director of operations, replaced Lt. Col. Paul Eberhart. Colonel Eberhart went on to be a student at the National Defense University Joint Advanced Warfighting School in Norfolk, Va.
Colonel Mann was born in Atlanta but spent much of his time growing up in Florida. He graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1991 as a distinguished graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering.
After completing undergraduate pilot training, his first assignment was to Robins AFB, Ga., as a KC-135 standards and evaluations officer. Throughout his career he has had many other assignments; his first assignment to Charleston AFB was from September 2001 to May 2003.
"My first assignment to Charleston definitely left an impression on me because my family and I arrived at the base Sept. 11, 2001," said Colonel Mann. "I will never forget the incredible teamwork and resolve of the members of Team Charleston I witnessed then and continue to see every day."
He said his first priority as the new commander is to get to know everyone in the squadron. He also wants to ensure everyone understands his expectations with respect to personal and professional conduct.
"I expect the members of the 16 AS to uphold the highest personal and professional standards to make safety the cornerstone of their decision processes, to support their fellow Airmen and their families, and to dedicate themselves to continuous personal and professional development," said Colonel Mann.
What is an interesting fact about yourself? When I was a kid, the local TV station would always show a classic horror movie in the afternoon. To this day, I still enjoy watching the old horror movie classics.
What is your favorite movie? The "Shawshank Redemption" because it reminds us to never give up, even when faced with incredible adversity.
What is your major pet peeve? The "it's not my problem" mentality.
Who is your favorite author? I grew up enjoying the books of Robert Heinlein, Isaac Asimov and Arthur Clarke. Their books opened my mind to the incredible future we can make for ourselves if we are willing to put forth the effort.
What is your favorite quote? "The secret to the meaning of life is found in the sure knowledge of death, for without it man would never strive to leave his mark." This quote reminds me that we must make the most of every day and that service to something greater than oneself is the highest possible calling.
Why did you join the Air Force? I initially joined because I wanted to serve my country, to get an education and to fly. I stayed because of the incredible people.
How would you describe your leadership style? "Do the right thing" -- for our country, our Air Force, our wing, our squadron and our people.
Who is your role model and why? My grandfather. He served for 26 years as an Army Soldier and later, when the Air Force became a separate service, as an Air Force officer. He has embodied the Air Force core values his entire life.