Merkle assumes command of Texas C-5 Operations Group Published July 13, 2014 By Capt. Philip Cortez 433 AW/PA JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas -- Col. Lee E. Merkle assumed command of the 433rd Operations Group during a ceremony at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, July 12. Col. William W. Whittenberger, Jr., the 433rd Airlift Wing commander, presided over the event. "I'm honored and grateful for this opportunity to lead this wonderful group of professionals," Merkle said. "Together our mission is to train and provide combat ready Airmen." Col. Merkle enlisted in the Air Force in 1986 and served as a jet engine mechanic for nine years. In 1993, Merkle earned a Bachelor of Science degree from San Jose State University in California, and then was commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1995. Highlights of Merkle's career included tours as chief of training, deputy commander of the 512th Operations Group, and being rated Command Pilot with over 6,000 hours. During his activation in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, Col. Merkle flew 23 combat support and combat sorties. Col. Whittenberger, who assumed command of the Wing earlier in the day, praised Col. Merkle throughout his remarks. "Thank you for giving me a strong fighter in Col. Merkle," stated Whittenberger to Brig. Gen. John C. Flournoy, Jr., 4th Air Force commander. "Col. Merkle is going to manage change because nothing is ever static in the U.S. Air Force Reserve. He is going to take care of everyone and when he is jumping over the wall, I'm jumping with him." Merkle expressed enthusiasm for his new leadership position and is looking forward to meeting and overcoming any challenges presented to the group. "We have over 65 different skill sets here supporting the mission," Merkle said to members of the 433rd OG after assuming command. "Our new motto is 'Ready'." Col. Merkle also thanked his family and friends for making the trip to San Antonio for the ceremony. Click here to view Col. Merkle's full biography.