Short is the firs female to command the storied unit and the first time a fighter pilot will command the 23d Wing since its reactivation at Moody AFB in 2006
The Flying Tigers welcomed Col. Jennifer Short as she took command of the installation during a change of command ceremony on Jul. 10.
Noteworthy, as told by Andrea Jenkins, 23d Wing Public Affairs, in the article Reins of Flying Tigers changes hands, this ceremony marked the first time a female will command the storied unit and the first time a fighter pilot will command the 23d Wing since its reactivation at Moody AFB in 2006.
“If anyone understands the operations tempo of 23d Wing Airmen in today’s fight against ISIS, it is Colonel Short,” said Maj. Gen. Scott J. Zobrist, 9th Air Force commander, who presided over the ceremony. “Her flying and leadership experience make her the right commander for this wing, which is continuously engaged in combat operations.”
Short may be new to Moody, but she is no stranger to the base’s mission and airframes; prior to flying the A-10C Thunderbolt II, she served as a navigator aboard the C-130E Hercules.
“As a fighter pilot, and specifically an A-10 and SANDY trained pilot, I have worked closely with the rescue community and benefited from their support,” Short added. “I have great respect and a tremendous appreciation for what the Flying Tigers bring to the fight.
Short has outlined three priorities for the wing, which she proclaims will pave the way for the Flying Tigers’ continued success.
“[My Priorities include] ensuring that we are the experts at our craft – highly trained, highly skilled and always striving to learn and grow,” Short said. “This will enable us to be always ready – always ready to respond when called upon to provide lethal airpower, rescue capability and to give the very best support to the warfighter. We will always take care of our airmen and families – recognizing that our people are our most important assets.”
“The 23d Wing is a world-class unit and an outstanding team, and I’m looking forward to continuing the great work that has earned the Flying Tigers a well-deserved reputation of excellence,” Short concluded.
Photo credit: Staff Sgt. Ryan Callaghan / U.S. Air Force and Teddy Techer
Artwork courtesy of AircraftProfilePrints.com
