Rausch takes command of 982nd TRG

  • Published
  • By John Ingle
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The 982nd Training Group welcomed its new commander Sept. 30 during a change of command ceremony at the Sheppard Club.

Col. John Rausch accepted command of the group from Brig. Gen. O.G. Mannon, 82nd Training Wing commander. Col. David Norsworthy relinquished command, but he didn't have to move too far for his next assignment.

A little laughter and good humor was injected into the ceremony as General Mannon informed the audience that Colonel Rausch received an "early parole from 'the building,'" explaining the new commander's last assignment at the Pentagon.

The general also let the colonel know of the high expectations and standards of the 982nd TRG as he mentioned the accomplishments of the group. These include the Chief of Staff Team Excellence Award, a Squadron of the Year award, and several individual awards that were indicative of the dedication and professionalism of the 982nd.

"You see what you're walking into is an organization that is very well oiled and moving at the speed of heat," General Mannon said. "All you have to do is hang on."

Colonel Rausch accepted the challenge to keep the world-class organization moving forward. He said it was a privilege to be selected by the general to lead the global training group and it is an honor to take the group's guidon.

"My family and I are extremely glad to be here," he said, confirming that his early release from the Pentagon was a pleasant surprise. "I'm looking forward to meeting all of you."

Colonel Norsworthy - whose new job is to serve as the 82nd Training Wing vice commander - said he took great pride in knowing his organization was putting the flags of Air Education and Training Command and the 82nd Training Wing in more than 40 locations across the world. He said the group's mission at home is also one that has a far reaching effect in the Air Force.

"The 982nd not only has a great away game, which is the (Field Training Detachment) game, but a great home game with the 982nd Maintenance Squadron," Colonel Norsworthy said.

The group not only provides worldwide advanced aircraft maintenance training, but also directs the acquisition, development and maintenance of 14,000 training devices and 103 ground instructional training aircraft worth more than $3 billion, and support of over 87,000 technical and field training students annually.

The general thanked Colonel Norsworthy for his service as the 982nd TRG commander, as well as his duties as acting vice commander. During this stint as General Mannon's fill-in while he was TDY, the colonel oversaw two general officer visits as well as the 2nd Air Force conference. He also recognized Lt. Col. Tony Lefevre, the group's deputy commander and acting commander and the continuation of outstanding business by the 92nd TRG.