| Missouri National Guard names new commander of 131st Bomb Wing |
By: Capt. Tamara Spicer/Missouri National Guard Public Affairs
|
|
Col. Gregory S. Champagne
|
|
|
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. (Feb. 10, 2010) — Col. Gregory S. Champagne has been named commander of the Missouri National Guard’s 131st Bomb Wing at Whiteman Air Force Base.
Champagne is well suited to lead the 1,100-member wing, said Brig. Gen. Stephen Danner, adjutant general of the Missouri National Guard.
“Col. Champagne is a proven leader and an outstanding Air National Guard officer,” Danner said. “Under his command, the 131st will continue to lead the way with its crucial B-2 Bomber mission.”
Champagne, who previously served as the wing’s vice commander, will succeed the wing’s current commander, Col. Robert Leeker.
As vice commander, Champagne played a key role in the wing’s transition from its F-15 Eagle mission at Lambert Air National Guard Base in St. Louis to its current mission. The wing is now a classic associate wing with the 509th Bomb Wing, flying the B-2 Spirit at Whiteman.
Champagne began his career in the Missouri Air National Guard when he received his commission through the Academy of Military Science. He has flown F-4 Phantoms, F-15 Eagles, and achieved combat mission ready status in the B-2 Spirit in 2008.
Additionally, Champagne has a broad background of experience with assignments in flying operations, logistics, aircraft maintenance, a National Guard Bureau staff assignment, and wing staff positions. He has flown combat missions in Operations Provide Comfort and Southern Watch. He commanded the 407th Air Expeditionary Group at Tallil Air Base, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Champagne has been awarded numerous medals, ribbons and other citations, including the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal with two oak leave clusters, Air Force and Army Commendation medals, Air Force Achievement Medal and Joint Meritorious Unit Award.
Champagne is a graduate of Tarkio College in Tarkio.
Click here to follow the Pulaski County Daily News on Twitter
Click here to follow the Pulaski County Daily News on Facebook
Click here to comment for local opinion |
|
Printer-friendly format
|
|
