EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- The 33rd Operations Support Squadron (OSS) welcomed their new commander in a change of command ceremony May 13, 2022, at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida.
Lt. Col. William M. Andreotta assumed command from Lt. Col. Brad R. Matherne, before the presiding officer, Col. Byron R. Pompa, 33rd Operations Group commander.
Pompa praised the contributions made by Matherne to the 33rd OSS, and welcomed Andreotta as he assumed command.
“We will see one of the finest commanders I have had an opportunity to work with in my 23 years of service hand over command to an equally talented officer who was handpicked to carry on the tradition of integrity, service, excellence and mission focus the Jokers are known for,” said Pompa.
Matherne recognized the squadron’s accomplishments as he relinquished command to Andreotta.
“I leave you with an organization defined not simply by their successes, but rather the process by which they achieve them,” said Matherne. “This squadron does not fear failure and in this day in age, is quite refreshing. The status quo is not their standard and they will challenge you to be your very best each and every day.”
Andreotta, the incoming commander, previously served as the director of the F-35 Academic Training Center at Eglin.
“This is who the 33rd OSS is,” said Andreotta. “Lindsey (Andreotta’s wife) and I are thrilled that we are becoming part of this team, working with you and for you, to ensure mission success.”
As the commander of the 33rd OSS, Andreotta will be responsible for over 70 officers, enlisted and civilian personnel, and is charged with training, scheduling, tactics and aircrew support for the F-35A Lightning II pilot training.