Education squadron gets new commander

  • Published
  • By Scott Knuteson
  • Air University Public Affairs
The same day the nation selected a new commander-in-chief, the Spaatz Center's Education Support Squadron saw its first major change since its inception: the installation of a new commander.

Lt. Col. Steven Griswold assumed command Tuesday from Col. W. Michael Guillot, the organization's first commander. Colonel Griswold will maintain his position as Spaatz Center director of staff as he takes the reigns of the squadron.

"I have no doubt that Colonel Griswold will carry on the traditions that Colonel Guillot started the last six months, as well as the level of excellence that has been shown and expected," Maj. Gen. Maury Forsyth, commander of the Spaatz Center, said following the ceremony.

Before handing over control of the squadron, Colonel Guillot spoke of the unit's progression from "aspiration to reality" in the midst of the major Air University reorganization. Colonel Guillot has served as the commander of the squadron, as well as director of Air University International Affairs and the International Officer School.

Col. Michael Homan will take on the director of Air University International Affairs and International Officer School duties as Colonel Guillot retires.

"Although you don't actually teach any of the 19,000 plus students who are educated annually through the Spaatz Center, you have helped provide the physical, mental and financial resources required for those who do," Colonel Griswold told the squadron's personnel.

The Education Support Squadron is housed under the Spaatz Center and handles key areas such as financial management, personnel, and plans and programs for the Center. The squadron only just received the first measure of its success last month in the form of an "excellent" rating from the Operational Readiness Inspection conducted by the Air Education and Training Command Inspector General team.