MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan -- The 35th Fighter Wing guidon was placed into new hands during a change of command ceremony here, July 16.

During the ceremony, Col. R. Scott Jobe, the former 35th FW commander, relinquished command to the fighter wing’s 66th commander, Col. Kristopher W. Struve.

The event was presided over by Brig. Gen. Todd A. Dozier, the Fifth Air Force vice commander, who noted the 70-year alliance has fostered a true friendship among service members and the surrounding Misawa community. Dozier praised Jobe’s accomplishments and contributions in addition to welcoming Struve into his new position.

“The special relationship Team Misawa members have with their local counterparts has certainly flourished under Jobe’s leadership,” said Dozier. “In short, Jobe has left the 35th FW in outstanding shape.”

Jobe, who served as the 35th FW commander since July 2016, is headed for the Pentagon as Chief of the Program Integration Division. During his farewell address, he reflected on his time at Misawa remarking that he felt not only proud to be a part of the Wild Weasels but ready to pass the torch to the incoming commander.

“I am honored and deeply humbled to be a part of such a great community and fantastic wing.” said Jobe. “I couldn’t think of a better person to hand the 35th FW to. Col. Struve is a fantastic leader and will be a great asset to Team Misawa.”

With Jobe’s time as commander coming to an end, he reminded attendees to take a stand and continue to support and defend the constitution of the United States, while Struve takes center stage.

Before arriving to Misawa, Struve was the 8th Operations Group commander at Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea. This will be his third assignment at Misawa and fourth assignment in Japan. During previous tours here, he served as a flight commander, wing weapons officer, director of operations, and squadron commander.

“I ask you to serve with honor, excellence and the drive to win,” explained Struve. “My job is to ensure you have everything you need to complete the mission. I thank you for your service to your nation, and I’m grateful to be a part of the greatest wing in the United States Air Force.”