913 AG elevates three to key leadership positions
By Master Sgt. Jeff Walston, 913th Airlift Group
/ Published November 08, 2017
Little Rock Air Force Base, Ark. -- Three people have been elevated to key leadership positions within the 913th Airlift Group at Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas.
U.S. Air Force Reserve Col. Christopher Lay, commander of 913 AG, presided over the three ceremonies hours prior to, and during the Group’s Unit Training Assembly weekend.
Chief Master Sgt. Kimberly L. Lord
U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Kimberly L. Lord was officially promoted on Nov. 1, 2017. The promotion ceremony was held two days later in the 327th Airlift Squadron auditorium at Little Rock AFB.
“I haven't forgotten this eighth stripe sits on top of that very first stripe, which was equally exciting for me,” Lord said. “This stripe opens up doors to help me better serve Airmen.”
Lord was also selected to serve as the 913 AG Superintendent – title for the senior enlisted person for the group.
“The first word that comes to mind when asked about my selection to this position is ‘humbling’ immediately followed by ‘exciting.’ Most people think it's the chief stripe that I am referring to, when in actuality it is the position,” Lord said.
As superintendent, Lord advises the commander on matters concerning the health, morale, welfare, and the effective utilization of the enlisted, members with the group. She also serves as the commander’s representative to numerous committees, councils, boards, and military and civilian functions.
Lt. Col. Tara E. Nolan
U.S. Air Force Reserve Lt. Col. Tara E. Nolan assumed command of the 96th Aerial Port Squadron at Little Rock AFB, Nov. 4, 2017.
Col. Christopher Lay, commander of 913 AG, said about commanding the squadron, “It’s not the easiest job to do, but it is the most rewarding. Aerial Port has a proud history.”
Nolan, a U.S. Air Force Academy graduate of the Class of 94’, started her career in the logistics field, but transitioned to C-130 pilot in May 2000. She thanked everyone from the 913 AG, and her family members who attended the ceremony.
“I think it’s awesome to come back here, where my C-130 training started, Nolan said. “I’m looking forward to working with this outstanding command.”
Lt. Col. Charlotte C. Appleton
The 913th Airlift Group also hosted an Assumption of Command Ceremony, for Lt. Col. Charlotte C. Appleton who took the reins of the 913th Aerospace Medical Squadron at Little Rock AFB, Nov. 5, 2017.
Appleton praised the 913 AMDS personnel. “You’ve worked hard and established a strong foundation allowing us to take it to the next level,” she said.
Having recently returned from a deployment, Appleton told the members of the 913 AG in attendance. “Warrior medics will be serving you, and I’m looking forward to joining you in the next adventure at the 913th Airlift Group.”
After the ceremony, Appleton, who hails from Ohio, thanked her family for driving from Ohio, and an uncle who came down from Portland, Oregon.