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39th Wing commander reflects on past, future of Incirlik

AFPN

7/14/2003

By Staff Sgt. Elaine Aviles 39th Wing Public Affairs

INCIRLIK AIR BASE, TURKEY (USAFENS) -- After almost two years and a multitude of world-changing events, the last of the 39th Wing commanders is bidding Incirlik a fond farewell.

Col. Marc Felman leaves soon for an assignment at the Pentagon, where he will serve as a special assistant to the executive officer of the Air Force.

"I would do it all over with no hesitation," Felman said. "This was by far the best job I ever had."

He leaves behind more than a few chapters in the history books. During his 20-month tenure, Felman led Incirlik through a surety inspection, combat wing reorganization, two major operations, labor union negotiations, a strike scare and an authorized departure and a war.

As he leaves, he will witness one last change - the ceremonial deactivation of the wing.

"I am very pleased and proud to have been the last wing commander," Felman said. "But I feel in my heart the wing designation will be back one day, and I will want to be present to unfurl the flag."

He turns over the reins to Col. William MacLure, currently the 39th Wing vice commander, July 21.

"I'm confident Col. MacLure will make this place even better," Felman said. "He'll hit the ground running when I give up the flag."

Since his arrival, Felman's command has been marked with unique challenges.

"History was made here with two huge operations being conducted from one base," he said. "That had never been seen before. Now, the Taliban is extinguished and Saddam is on the run . magnificent!"

Although Operations Northern Watch and Enduring Freedom posed daily risks, Felman said his biggest challenge was a more recent one.

"It was difficult to get ready for Operation Iraqi Freedom," he said. "But when the flag went up, we gathered our best and began weekly meetings to synchronize our efforts. In the end we were ready and the 39th team once again proved it is the best."

Another challenging situation was one most commanders never have to handle - an authorized departure. With the threat of war looming, he bore the burden for the safety of non-essential civilians and family members.

"I knew the minute family members left, this place was going to be a very different place to live and work," he said. "Our lives changed drastically. Because there are so many places family members work and volunteer, our quality of life was impacted in a dramatic way. I'm just glad they are back."

Many people measure their success through the attainment of their goals. Now that his time at Incirlik is winding down, Felman took time to look back at his.

"While I was here, I wanted to get as many people promoted as possible," he said. "I also wanted this team to get noticed for what it was doing and it did . I am really pleased."

In fact, the wing earned more than its share of awards, with a 2002 Department of Defense Antiterrorism and Force Protection Award, two Air Force Maj. Gen. Eugene L. Eubank trophies and more than 100 other unit and individual awards, including two Outstanding Airmen of the Year.

"I have discovered why people told me this was 'the' wing," Felman said. "Only the best comes to the Tip. While I'm excited about serving at Air Force headquarters, I'm saddened about leaving Incirlik behind. It was an honor to lead and serve with some of the top people in the Air Force."