COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss -- COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- U.S. Air Force Col. Seth W. Graham turned-over command of the 14th Flying Training Wing here to Col. Justin T. Grieve, July 26, 2022.
The presiding officer of the event, Maj. Gen. Craig Wills, 19th Air Force commander, visited Columbus AFB to congratulate Grieve on assuming command and to also thank Graham for his accomplishments during his time as commander.
“Seth I am immensely proud of the work you and Team Blaze have done here these past few years,” said Wills. “Your dedication to the men and women of Columbus has been nothing short of remarkable. You have been relentless in advocating for your Airmen and your mission.
No issue was too big or too small for you to pick up the phone and call. Job well done.”
Under the guidance of Graham, the 14th FTW transformed its culture to execute through a global pandemic that threatened the nation’s ability to produce Air Force pilots. During his time, Graham also increased the wing’s pilot production by 31 percent, and exceeded a 71,000 hour flying program across the Air Force’s largest pilot training wing.
“One of the best parts about our Air Force is that, when one great leader steps aside, we have another great leader and their family ready to fill the void right away,” said Wills.
Grieve was previously the Chief of the Nuclear Missions Planning Division, Plans and Policy Directorate at the United States Strategic Command, Offutt AFB, Nebraska.
“If somebody would have allowed me to pick my successor, it would have been you,” said Graham. “I can’t think of anyone better suited, better prepared to do the job, than you.”
Grieve began his career as a T-37 First Assignment Instructor Pilot (FAIP) at Vance AFB, Oklahoma, then proceeded to be an instructor pilot in the B-2 at Whiteman AFB, Missouri.
“I credit Maj. Gen. Wills, and Maj. Gen. Weatherington, prior 8th Air Force commander, for collaborating to allow me to follow in Seth’s footsteps,” said Grieve. “Every command opportunity is special and as a flyer, every command opportunity where you get to fly is extra special. So sir, thank you for this opportunity to lead.”
Following the turn-over of command, Grieve spoke to the members of the 14th FTW as their new commander for the first time.
“I intend to continue following the path that has been set for this base,” said Grieve. “To the men and women of the 14th Flying Training Wing, your recent achievements are exceptional. They honor and advance the legacy of Columbus Air Force Base and I am thrilled to join your team. I promise each of you nothing but my very best each and every day. So, without further delay, let’s do this.”