Hohn takes command at Altus Air Force Base

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Nathan Clark
  • 97th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  U.S. Air Force Col. Todd Hohn assumed command of the 97th Air Mobility Wing June 26.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. James Hecker, 19th Air Force commander, served as the reviewing officer at the ceremony that honored former 97th AMW commander U.S. Air Force Col. Bill Spangenthal and inducted Hohn as the new commander. 

"We serve our people first, and that's what [Spangenthal] instilled across the wing," said Hecker. "He listened to them, he truly cared and he gave them a lot of things they didn't have before. The only thing that makes it easy for him to be on his way is that he knows there are great people coming in."

Hohn previously served as a Chief of Staff of the Air Force fellow with the duties of distribution division chief at the Pentagon.  Hohn has also served as a squadron commander. He holds many distinguished awards for his academics and his service in the Air Force. 

"I'm honored, humbled and blessed for this privilege to serve the men and women of the Mighty 97th AMW," said Hohn.

After serving for two years as the 97th AMW commander, Spangenthal will be going on to serve as the Secretary of the Air Force and CSAF executive action group director at the Pentagon.

"When I got here two years ago I said the Mighty 97th creates the best trained Airmen our nation has ever seen," said Spangenthal. "And now, I stand by that statement even stronger than before. We produce the best in the world and it's because of the Airmen. They deserve all the credit."

Spangenthal oversaw many improvements to the base, as well as helped secure the 2014 Commander in Chief's Installation Excellence Award. Spangenthal also welcomed many distinguished guests to Altus Air Force Base, including the Chief of Staff of the Air Force, the Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force and the Secretary of the Air Force.

Hohn thanked the Spangenthal family for leading the Mighty 97th, and expressed his own charge for the wing.

"To the men and women of the 97th AMW, I look forward to serving beside you," said Hohn. "All that will be handed over to me is the best in the United States Air Force. We will continue to focus on safety, mission execution, developing leaders and taking care of Airmen, all while ensuring to keep the faith of our families."