22nd OG receives new leadership

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class John Linzmeier
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  Col. Jennifer L. Uptmor took command of the 22nd Operations Group during a change of command ceremony July 16.

Riney's leadership as the 22nd OG commander helped McConnell AFB earn more than 36 higher-headquarters awards the last two years.

"You led your folks, you gave them a vision, and you let them run," said Col. Joel Jackson, 22nd Air Refueling Wing commander, to Riney. "Congratulations on your job well done. You have written quite a chapter in the McConnell KC-135 history books, but I know you will go off and do greater things in the Pentagon."

The 22nd OG commander is held accountable to oversee and ensure the success of the group. To provide global reach by conducting air refueling and airlift where and when needed.

Uptmor was last assigned as a student at Dwight D. Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy, Fort McNair, Washington D.C.

"She is well schooled in the ways of staff compliance," said Jackson, "and her experience and leadership have prepared her to take the next saga; to take the tankers of McConnell to newer heights.

Uptmor has experience with previous KC-135 assignments at Fairchild AFB, Wash. and Scott AFB, Ill.

"Thank you for joining this special occasion today," she said. "I am excited to return home to the Midwest and to my very first aircraft.

Jackson handed the 22nd OG guidon to Uptmor, symbolizing the change of command from one commander to another.

"Col. Jackson, sir, thank you for your trust and confidence," she said. "Command authority and accountability is a great responsibility. I am honored and very humbled."

She wished success to the outgoing commander and thanked him for his contribution as a 'servant leader.'

"Col. Uptmor, I envy your position," said Riney in his farewell speech. "You have a great team here."