MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. --
Maj. Gen. Robert F. Hedelund relinquished command of
2nd Marine Aircraft Wing to Brig. Gen. Paul J. Rock Jr. during a change of
command ceremony here, June 18.
Hedelund served as 2nd MAW commanding general since
his appointment in May 2013. He will continue his career as Commander, Marine
Forces Korea and UCJ-5, United Nations Command, Combined Forces Command, U.S.
Forces Korea.
“There is no finer privilege than to have the
opportunity to be in service with the finest Marines on the planet when it
comes to aviation and what they do for our nation,” said Maj. Gen. Hedelund
during the ceremony.
In
a letter sent out to Marines, Sailors, families and the communities that have
been a close part of 2nd MAW, Hedelund stated "We have accomplished much
together and we [Alicia and I] are humbled by your patriotism, tenacity and
your commitment to mission success – for that we humbly thank you."
Hedelund
also thanked the community, in which he stated that he and his wife Alicia,
truly feel as if they belong here.
In
closing Maj. Gen. Hedelund stated that "As we depart we would ask that you
take care of each other, your loved ones and yourselves. You all matter deeply
to us and we wish you the very best in the future. As the 2nd MAW team, we need
each of you to be ready when the nation is least ready. Thank you again for the
work you do, day in and day out, rain or shine – we know that we can depend on
you – you are a national treasure. It has been a true honor, genuine joy and
rare privilege for both of us to serve with you."
According
to Hedelund leadership at every level across the wing was absolutely phenomenal
during his tenure.
Rock
previously served under Hedelund as the assistant wing
commander since July 2014.
“Maj. Gen. Hedelund has been incredibly instructive
to me, I want to thank him for the example he has set,” said Rock. “I am
excited and honored by this opportunity to lead 2nd MAW.”