Col. Richard Switzer Assumes Command of 130th Airlift Wing
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A new era has begun for the 130th Airlift Wing, as Col. Richard F. Switzer officially took command from Col. Bryan W. Preece in a formal ceremony held October 4, 2025, at McLaughlin Air National Guard Base in Charleston, West Virginia. The change of leadership marks a significant moment for the unit, poised for continued service and adaptation under Switzer’s direction.
A Legacy of Service: Col. Preece’s Tenure
Col. Preece’s six-year leadership, from 2019 to 2025, was characterized by substantial operational achievements. Leading over 1,100 personnel and a fleet of eight C-130 Super Hercules aircraft, Preece oversaw more than 9,000 flight hours, completing 5,500 sorties and transporting 6,472 tons of cargo to destinations around the globe. The Wing also moved over 17,000 passengers during his command, achieving a peak mission capability rate of 80.16% in 2022.
A key accomplishment during Preece’s tenure was the 2022 transition from the C-130 Super Hercules H model to the J model, enhancing the Wing’s capabilities. His strategic vision also guided deployments to critical regions including Afghanistan, Iraq, Qatar, and even the remote landscapes of Antarctica. Notably, the 130th Airlift Wing played a vital role in the 2021 Kabul evacuation response, demonstrating its agility and commitment to humanitarian efforts. The unit’s participation in high-profile exercises like Operation Deep Freeze and Valiant Shield further underscored its readiness and resilience.
“When I meet someone in life, they ask me what I do,” Preece shared during the ceremony. “I always said, ‘I’m a member of the 130th.’ I didn’t say I’m a pilot, or I’m the Wing Commander. That was my identity, and I was proud of the accomplishments. Those accomplishments, that’s you.”
Charting a New Course: Switzer’s Vision
Col. Switzer’s assumption of command comes following a rebranding of the Department of War in September 2025, and he emphasized a commitment to exceeding the expectations set forth by Secretary Pete Hegseth. His vision centers on empowering Airmen to achieve mastery in their respective fields, reinforcing the core competencies of service within the United States Air Force.
“We will afford Airmen the opportunity to achieve mastery within their craft, focusing on the fundamental core competencies of being an Airman and a member of the United States Air Force,” Switzer stated. “The motto ‘Fly, Fight, and Win’ is as true now as it was in 1947. We’ll remain ready, respectful, and responsive, with a focus on three key areas: Ready Airman, Airman Development, and Mission Execution.”
A Veteran Leader Takes the Helm
Col. Switzer brings 31 years of dedicated service in the West Virginia Air National Guard to his new role, having served in both enlisted and officer capacities since enlisting in October 1994. As a Command Navigator, he has accumulated over 3,500 military flying hours, including more than 600 hours in combat situations. He is the 11th commander of the 130th Airlift Wing, a unit that first received federal recognition on October 16, 1955.
The transition of leadership signifies not just a change in command, but a continuation of the 130th Airlift Wing’s long-standing tradition of service, readiness, and dedication to the nation.
