EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE -- The 33rd Maintenance Squadron welcomed their new commander in a change of command ceremony, July 1, 2021, at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida.
Maj. Jeffrey Rodriguez took command from Lt. Col. Brian Hassler before the presiding officer Col. Ronald Llantada, 33rd Maintenance Group commander.
“Hassler’s steadfast leadership and support enabled his remarkable team to continue to meet all requirements without any lapse,” said Llantada. “This is what you can expect of a Nomad! Regardless of any adversity, Nomads always find a way to rise to the top.”
Hassler will continue his service in the Air Force as a staff member for Air Mobility Command at Scott Air Force Base, Illinois.
Rodriguez, the incoming commander, is transitioning from the 1st Special Operations Maintenance Squadron as a maintenance operations officer at Hurlburt Field, Florida. Rodriguez has held assignments in Air Combat Command, U.S. Air Forces in Europe, Air Force Material Command and Air Force Special Operation Command.
“Thank you for entrusting me to take command of such an important squadron that truly is maintaining the most lethal weapons platforms of our future conflicts,” said Rodriguez. “I am honored to take on this responsibility and I promise to not only meet, but exceed your expectations.”
As the commander, Rodriguez commands approximately 222 personnel supporting a fleet of 26 F-35A Lightning II aircraft. He is responsible for executing an annual budget of over $300,000, and maintaining a $43.6 million fleet of support equipment driving the 33d Fighter Wing, Air Education Training Command and the Joint Program Office sustainment initiatives.
“All I ask of you, Wizards, is that you trust me and allow me to be your advocate,” said Rodriguez. “You and your family will be my and my family’s priority for the next few years. I am honored and humbled to join the team.”