982nd Change of Command ceremony welcomes Colonel Norsworthy

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Tonnette Thompson
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Col. David Norsworthy accepted command of the 982nd Training Group from 82nd Training Wing Commander Brig. Gen. Richard Devereaux during a ceremony June 15 in Hangar 1040.

"This may look like a relatively small footprint," the general said, gesturing to the humble gathering of 982nd TRG members and guests, "but don't be fooled; for the 300 represented here at Sheppard, another 1,000 are stationed around the world, responsible for the training of tens of thousands of students annually. This is the largest group on the base and it has had, and I'm sure it will continue to have, excellent leadership."

Colonel Norsworthy entered the Air Force in 1981, attending Officer Training School at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. He attended navigator training at Mather AFB, Calif.

The colonel said the success of the organization isn't just about who the leader is.

"Success is a team effort," Colonel Norsworthy told his new charges during the ceremony. "I am eager to participate with you."

Col. Gary Pond, the out-going commander of the group, said he was offered the opportunity to lead the 982nd for a third year, but chose to move on, regrettably.

"I am kicking myself," said Colonel Pond at the ceremony, looking at Colonel Norsworthy. "I wish I were in this man's shoes, so I could do this all over again."

Colonel Pond has served as commander of the 982nd TRG since June, 2005. He will go on to serve as the wing vice commander at F.E. Warren AFB, Wyo.

Colonel Norsworthy's last posting was as the commander of the 6th Maintenance Group, MacDill AFB, Fla. There, he oversaw the generation, repair and sustainment of 12 KC-135R, and three C-37 aircraft supporting worldwide aerial refueling, airlift and special assignment missions for U.S. and allied forces, as well as providing direct support to the Unified Combatant Commander, United States Central Command.

Colonel Norsworthy has a Bachelor of Arts degree, a Master of Arts degree and a Master of Science degree.

Colonel Norsworthy's awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters, the Air Medal with one oak leaf cluster, the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Air Force Achievement Medal with one oak leaf cluster, the Combat Readiness Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and the Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal.