New commander takes reins at Team Dover

Col. Michael W. Grismer Jr. assumed command of the 436th Airlift Wing from Col. Richard G. Moore during a change of command ceremony held Aug. 15  in Hanger 706 at Dover Air Force Base.

Lt. Gen. Carlton D. Everhart II, 18th Air Force commander, presided over the ceremony and said Grismer has the proven performance and right leadership qualities to lead the 436th AW.

“When you look at his record, he has cared for his airmen and their families with equality, integrity and characteristics of a true leader,” said Everhart. “There is no doubt he is the ideal choice to lead this wing and its important worldwide mission.”

Grismer was previously the vice commander of the 3rd Wing at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, before taking command of the 436th AW.

Moore, who took command of Dover Air Force Base in August 2012, will serve his next assignment as the chief of the Global Mobility Division at the Pentagon in Arlington, Va., working with the headquarters Air Force staff.

Grismer commissioned in 1992 following his graduation from the United States Air Force Academy. He began his career as a civil engineering officer before graduating from Joint Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training. He is a rated command pilot with 4,200 flight hours logged. His flight experiences include eight different aircraft including the C-5A/B/C and C-17.

The new commander acknowledged the importance Team Dover airmen play in executing global reach.

“Today, the first weapon of choice in conflict or peace will increasingly involve rapid global mobility,” said Grismer. “I have no doubt Team Dover will continue to enable combat power and deliver hope whenever we are called. My family and I are committed to giving our very best to serve the Dover team. I am excited to join a team with a reputation and a tradition for hard work and turning challenges into opportunities. I look forward to sharing in the future success of our Total Force team here at Dover.”