CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
The 15th Airlift Squadron welcomed a new commander during a change of command ceremony at the Charleston Club April 11.
Lt. Col. Johnny Lamontagne, former operations officer for the 15 AS, replaced Lt. Col. William Anderson. Colonel Anderson's next assignment will be as a national defense fellow at the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University.
Colonel Lamontagne was born in Texas, but has been raised in various locations, including England, because he was a military child. He graduated from the United States Air Force Academy in 1992 with a Bachelor of Science degree in aeronautical engineering and was commissioned as a second lieutenant. He later went on to earn his Master of Arts degree in human relations from Webster University, Master of Science in systems engineering from the Air Force Institute of Technology, and Master of Arts in airpower art and science from the School of Advanced Air and Space Studies.
During his first assignment at Charleston AFB from 1999-2003, he was part of the 14th and 16th Airlift Squadrons. He later returned to Charleston in June 2007 and became part of the 15th Airlift Squadron as the assistant operations officer and then as the operations officer. This is his first time being a squadron commander.
Colonel Lamontagne said his initial plans as the new commander include encouraging "people to have fun while getting the missions done." He also said he expects his Airmen to uphold the Air Force core values.
What is an interesting fact about yourself? I'm the only child in my family who didn't go to three high schools; I only went to two.
What is your favorite movie? "The Shawshank Redemption"
What is your major pet peeve? My major pet peeve is ignorance combined with arrogance.
Who is your favorite author? My favorite author is John Grisham.
What is your favorite quote? "Don't tell people how to do things, tell them what to do and let them surprise you with their results." - George S. Patton
How would you describe your leadership style? This is best described by others ... but I try to be humble, approachable and fair.
Who is your role model and why? My parents -- they led by example and always had a good explanation for why they made certain decisions.
What was your most memorable assignment? I would say my first assignment at Charleston AFB before and after 9/11 because it was professionally and personally rewarding.