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Photo Information

Brig. Gen. Paul J Rock Jr. addresses the crowd during a change of command ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., June 18, 2015. Maj. Gen. Robert F. Hedelund relinquished his post as 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing commanding general to Rock during the ceremony.

Photo by Lance Cpl. Jason Jimenez

2nd MAW bids Hedelund farewell, welcomes Rock

18 Jun 2015 | Lance Cpl. Jimenez 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing

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.”


2nd Marine Aircraft Wing