PATRICK AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- CAPE CANAVERAL AIR FORCE STATION, Fla. – Lt. Col. Gregory A. Vice assumes command of the 45th Operations Support Squadron and the 1st Range Operations Squadron June 14 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla., accepting command from Lt. Col Robert E. Shrader and Lt. Col. Monique C. DeLauter.
The change of command makes Vice a dual-hatted commander, streamlining the missions of both squadrons. Col. Steven Lang, commander of the 45th Launch Group and Operations Group, gives time to reflect on the impact that Vice’s predecessors have left.
"This is a historic time at the 45th Space Wing, and we have Lt Col DeLauter and Lt Col Shrader to thank for helping us get to where we are," said Col. Lang. "They are two incredible leaders that truly shaped this wing. But as we say goodbye to them, we welcome someone who I know will continue on their path to success. I'm excited to see where Lt Col Vice's leadership will take these two squadrons."
Each change of command signifies a formal transfer of responsibility, authority and honor, but this change of command also exemplifies the innovation and efficiency that have become hallmarks of the 45th Space Wing, said Lang.
"Both the 1 ROPS and 45 OSS are absolutely vital to the continued success of space launch activity on the Eastern Range,” remarked Vice. “From the airfields supporting area surveillance operations to the range instrumentation assuring safe passage into orbit, these organizations provide a key component to the space lift enterprise, and I feel incredibly honored to lead them as their squadron commander."
In addition to the change of command, the day honors the two out-going commanders as well. For their outstanding achievements serving the 45th Space Wing, Shrader and DeLauter receive the Meritorious Service Medal. The counterpart of the Bronze Star Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal is reserved for recognition of outstanding noncombatant service.
"The accomplishments of these squadrons has been and continues to be remarkable," said Vice. "I look forward to leading these outstanding squadrons as they keep advancing our team's success."