377th ABW welcomes new MSG CC

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Eli Chevalier
  • 377th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  The 377th Air Base Wing welcomed Col. Juan Alvarez as the new Mission Support Group commander at a change of command ceremony here, July 12.

Alvarez comes to Kirtland from the Air Force Civil Engineer Center, where he worked closely with the base and its Bulk Fuels Facility cleanup project.

As a two-time squadron commander and former deputy group commander Alvarez was impressed by his new Airmen.

“This day and ceremony are more about you and your accomplishments,” he said. “You epitomize the professionalism, integrity and resiliency that are required of today’s Airmen. You make miracles happen every day, and without your daily sacrifice and contributions, Kirtland’s mission would surely grind to a halt.”

The wing bade farewell to Col. Michael Harner, who served as the 377th MSG commander since July, 2016.

[This command] has truly been a highlight of my career, said Harner. “Alvarez is the perfect choice for leading this group of Airmen.”

Harner is now preparing for his retirement, slated to happen later this year.