MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Andrew Pushart, former commanding officer of VMGR-152, retired and relenquished command of Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152 to U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Mitchell T. Maury during a change of command ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, June 15, 2018.
Marines, sailors and other station personnel gathered to see Maury take command and Pushart retire after 26 years of service.
Under Pushart’s command, VMGR-152 performed beyond expectations, leading to a fluid transition between commanders.
“We’re coming up on 328,000 mishap free flight hours,” said Pushart. “We won the Marine Corps Aviation Association’s Commandant’s Aviation trophy this year, which means we’re the best squadron in the Marine Corps. Everything that the Marines are doing just pushes us to that level.”
Maury expressed his thoughts on Pushart’s time at VMGR-152, as well as his enthusiasm for his new position.
“I am extremely excited,” said Maury. “I’m walking into a fantastic situation. Lt. Col. Pushart has done an excellent job, so I’m set up for success.”
The change of command symbolizes a total transfer of authority from one individual to another, and is deeply rooted in tradition.
“A change of command ceremony is built around the history and traditions we have in the Marine Corps,” said Maury. “We take real pride in our traditions as Marines. That’s why we continue to do these today. To be aware of history so Marines can build pride from that esprit de corps and continue on these traditions.”