Vermont Business Magazine The 158th Fighter Wing Commander Colonel Patrick Guinee will relinquish command to incoming Wing Commander Colonel David Smith onSaturday, June 3, 2017. After an honorable career of 26-years serving our country and leading the Airmen of the 158th Fighter Wing Colonel Guinee will be retiring from the military. ColonelSmith has served as the 158th Fighter Wing Vice-Commander for the past two-years and has had a successful career as a leader within the Vermont Air National Guard to include 26-years as an accomplished F-16 pilot.
A change of command ceremony is a time honored tradition rooted in military history dating back to the 18th century. When a change of command takes place, the outgoing commander passes the unit's flag (Guidon) to the incoming commander. This gesture is accomplished in front of the entire unit so that all can witness their new leader assuming this dutiful position as he who controlled the flag also controlled the soldiers and their allegiance.
This tradition has survived throughout military history. The passing of the Guidon from Colonel Guinee to Colonel Smith symbolizes the official change of command at this solemn military ceremony.
The event is not open to the general public.
Source: South Burlington, VT – VTANG 6.1.2017