31st Operations Group change of command

U.S Air Force Col. William Lutmer, 31st Operations Group incoming commander, gives his daughter flowers after the 31st OG change of command ceremony at Aviano Air Base, Italy, May 30, 2023. Prior to this position, Lutmer was the Future Operations Division Chief for the North American Aerospace Defense Command. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jessica Blair)

Photo Details / Download Hi-Res
31st Operations Group change of command

U.S. Air Force Col. William Lutmer, 31st Operations Group incoming commander, addresses the squadron for the first time during a change of command ceremony at Aviano Air Base, Italy, May 30, 2023. Lutmer assumed command of the 31st OG, which consists of eight squadrons that continually support operations and exercises across three Combatant Commands. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jessica Blair)

Photo Details / Download Hi-Res
31st Operations Group change of command

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Tad D. Clark, 31st Fighter Wing commander, pins a medal onto U.S. Air Force Col. Kevin Crofton, 31st Operations Group outgoing commander, during the 31st OG change of command ceremony at Aviano Air Base, Italy, May 30, 2023. Crofton was the commander of the 31st OG from July 9, 2021 to May 30, 2023 where he oversaw the combat readiness of two fighter squadrons, one rescue squadron, one Guardian Angel rescue squadron, one air control squadron, and one operational support squadron conducting and supporting worldwide air operations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jessica Blair)

Photo Details / Download Hi-Res
31st Operations Group change of command

A 31st Operations Group guidon flag hangs during the 31st OG change of command ceremony at Aviano Air Base, Italy, May 30, 2023. The symbolic tradition of passing the guidon has survived throughout military history and remains the key event of the change of command ceremony. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jessica Blair)

Photo Details / Download Hi-Res
31st Operations Group change of command

From left, U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Tad D. Clark, 31st Fighter Wing commander, U.S. Air Force Col. Kevin Crofton, 31st Operations Group outgoing commander, and U.S. Air Force Col. William Lutmer, 31st OG incoming commander, stand at attention during the 31st OG change of command ceremony at Aviano Air Base, Italy, May 30, 2023. The change of command ceremony is rooted in military history, dating back to the 18th century and is symbolic of the handing over of command. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jessica Blair)

Photo Details / Download Hi-Res

31st Operations Group change of command

Published June 2, 2023
By Staff Sgt. Jessica Blair
31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs

AVIANO AIR BASE Italy-- -- U.S Air Force Col. William Lutmer, 31st Operations Group incoming commander, gives his daughter flowers after the 31st OG change of command ceremony at Aviano Air Base, Italy, May 30, 2023. Prior to this position, Lutmer was the Future Operations Division Chief for the North American Aerospace Defense Command. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jessica Blair)