JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
The 628th Contracting Squadron recently welcomed a new commander during a change of command ceremony here.
Maj. Tyr Brenner, who attended the Air Command and Staff College at Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala., before coming to Charleston, replaced Lt. Col. Randy Culbreth who is now assigned to the Space and Missile Systems Center at Los Angles AFB, Calif.
Major Brenner was born in Lubbock, Texas and was raised in an Air Force family. His father served 27 years as an F-111 and F-16 pilot.
He graduated from Huntingdon College in Montgomery, Ala., in 1994 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and was commissioned as an officer through the Officer Training School at Maxwell AFB in December 1996.
Following his graduation from OTS, he was assigned to the 30th Contracting Squadron at Vandenberg AFB., Calif., where he held multiple positions including contract specialist, contract negotiator and construction flight commander. This assignment was followed by others at Kadena Air Base, Japan; Hill AFB, Utah; Hickam AFB, Hi.; and Barksdale AFB, La.
As the new commander of the 628 CONS, Major Brenner said he and his family are excited to be here in Charleston.
"My family and I are thrilled to here," he said. "Great location and a dynamic place to work. We look forward to contributing to the team and appreciated all the support we've received."
What are your initial plans as the new commander?
Every contracting commander focuses on Fiscal Year obligation and professional customer support. We have the added challenge of joint basing, expanding mission, customer education and manning shortfalls. My initial focus is getting to know the contracting professionals that make it all happen, learning our customer's concerns and establishing a work environment that fosters success.
What is the goal and mission of your agency?
"You got it ... we bought it!" We are building efficiencies to ensure our customers receive timely support for the best value in their budget.
What are your expectations of your personnel?
I expect professionalism and outstanding customer support. The 628th Contracting Squadron personnel have impressed me from day one ... they are awesome.
What was your most memorable assignment and why?
I'm sure this will soon become the most memorable, however, the most memorable now would be my first assignment as a second lieutenant assigned to Vandenberg AFB. Everything was new and exciting; I went through the first couple years with my eyes wide open and developed the pride in our service I cherish today. I also met my wife during my first assignment; it took leaving California and three years of begging before she'd marry me.
Favorite movie: "The Hangover"... not a classic yet, but it will be.
Major pet peeve: Bad drivers
Favorite author: Eli Wiesel
Favorite quote: "Everyone's a pacifist between wars. It's like being a vegetarian between meals." Colman McCarthy
Why did you join the Air Force? To make a difference and be part of something bigger than myself.
How would you describe your leadership style? Servant leadership. Listen, trust and set the example. I try to be consistent and fair to allow for our members' success.
Who is your role model and why? I have several role models for different admirable traits they project:
o My father - Unbelievable work ethic, sense of duty and honor
o My mother - Selfless
o My son Nate - Unwavering optimism
o My wife Kris - Tremendous empathy