You will be missed

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Ronald Lafosse
  • 22nd Air Refueling WIng Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  Team McConnell is in mourning after losing one of its finest officers March 3. Col. Michael V. Krueger, 22nd Air Refueling Wing vice commander, passed away Tuesday after having served this wing honorably and with great distinction since May 2008.

"Mike epitomized the wingman concept as he was always by my side as we ran the 22nd Air Refueling Wing together--he was my confidant, mentor, and friend," said Col. James C. Vechery, 22nd Air Refueling Wing commander.

"He was an outstanding officer, but it goes deeper than that, it's the leadership qualities that he portrayed," said Chief Master Sgt. James Morman, 22nd Air Refueling Wing interim command chief. "He met every challenge with a smile. No matter how bad or good it was, he had that comforting grin. He never put himself before anyone else."

As the vice commander, Colonel Krueger stood side by side with Colonel Vechery in leading the world's largest KC-135 base as Team McConnell provided all-weather, in-flight, aerial refueling for the United States and allied military aircraft, as well as Global Reach airlift for the rapid and precise projection of troops, equipment and supplies worldwide.

"When we think of our Air Force core values of Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do, I cannot think of anyone who embodied those values more than Mike," the colonel said. "There is not a finer officer to ever put on an Air Force uniform."

Colonel Krueger previously served as Chief of the Programs Division at Headquarters Air Mobility Command, Scott Air Force Base, Ill., where he planned and programmed the command's forces to include 55,000 personnel and acquisitions of over 700 aircraft on 12 bases.

"His impact was widespread--the e-mails I am getting from all corners of the globe offering condolences and sympathy illustrate how many lives Col Krueger has touched over the years", said Colonel Vechery. "Colonel Krueger was a wonderful human being who was an extremely devoted husband, father, son, brother, and friend. While we will definitely miss his bright and cheerful smile, we are all better for having known him and served alongside this incredible person. As we celebrate his amazing life and long-lasting impact, please continue to keep his wife Lisa, sons Drake and Reed and his entire family in your prayers."

In lieu of flowers, the family has established the Michael Victor Krueger Memorial Fund for the benefit of his children's education. Contributions can be made at any Bank of America location. Donations can be made after Friday, March 6, 2009.