23rd MSG welcomes new commander

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Brigitte Brantley
  • 23rd Wing Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  The 23rd Mission Support Group received a new leader during an assumption of command ceremony here Dec. 18.

During the ceremony, Col. Mark Ruse assumed command of the group that is responsible for ensuring the readiness of support forces that deploy to assist with building, securing and sustaining air base operations anywhere in the world.

"Colonel Ruse's varied background and history of excellence made him a great candidate for this position," said Col. Gary Henderson, 23rd Wing commander. "His level of class and character indicate he will succeed in leading this esteemed outfit and help the 23rd MSG in continuing to display the dedication and professionalism I witness every day."

Colonel Ruse's last position was as the operations division chief at Headquarters Air Mobility Command in Scott Air Force Base, Ill., where he was responsible for overseeing the maintenance, repair and upgrade of more than 7,300 facilities at 12 AMC bases.

After graduating from the U.S. Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, Co., in 1987, the colonel's first assignment was at Moody as the 347th Civil Engineer Squadron program manager facility maintenance chief.

He says he is excited to return to the base where he first met his wife and where his daughter was born.

"It's hard to express how humbled and honored I am to return here and become a part of the Flying Tiger family again," said Colonel Ruse. "This is a magnificent opportunity to lead and serve at Moody with Airmen who have passion for the mission and compassion for the people they serve. I look forward to serving with each of them and keeping our Air Force the world's pre-eminent military power.

"We are still a nation at war and need to keep that in mind each day as we face challenges and receive opportunities each day," he added. "We are here to continue defending the United States and protecting the freedoms it represents. We will never waiver in our support of those serving far from home, as well as their families who are still at Moody."

Colonel Ruse will soon be joined by his wife Lisa and their two children.