AGADEZ, Niger -- “For our FAN brethren, your support has been nothing but outstanding,” said Lt. Col. Marlyce Roth, exiting 724th Expeditionary Air Base Squadron commander. “Our commitment to each other is unwavering. I know our partnership will endure for years to come.”
Airmen deployed to the 724th EABS, and their Forces Armées Nigeriennes counterparts, gathered to witness a change of command at Nigerien Air Base 201, Niger, to bid farewell to their previous 724th EABS commander and welcome the new commander on May 15, 2017.
During the change of command, the 724th EABS guidon was passed from Roth to the incoming commander, Lt. Col. Chance Geray.
“I’m excited to be here, where the challenges of such an austere environment bring out strengths from Airmen we don’t normally see at home,” said Geray. “Out here Airmen truly have to work together as a team to accomplish the mission.”
Teamwork is one of the characteristics Geray likes to emphasize for Airmen. While highlighting teamwork, Geray also notes the relationship between the 724th EABS Airmen and their FAN counterparts.
“For both of us to complete our missions, we have to work together,” said Geray. “We are with them daily on security posts and patrols continually learning from one another to enhance our partnership.”
While working closely with the FAN to complete an overarching mission, the 724th EABS commander aims to work on continuing to build a professional working partnership with the host nation.
“The sense of camaraderie out here is phenomenal and I look forward to continuing to enhance partnerships with our hosts,” said Geray. “Thanks again, Lt. Col. Roth, for building a first class team, I’m proud to take the reins of the 724th Expeditionary Air Base Squadron!”