MSG gets new colonel, new commander

SPRINGFIELD, Ohio -- The 178th Mission Support group celebrated a change of command ceremony with a newly appointed colonel as their commander, Jan. 11.

Col. Ann-Maria Coghlin was promoted from lieutenant colonel during a pinning ceremony before she took command of the 178th MSG at the Springfield Air National Guard Base.

"[Coghlin] knows the MSG in every aspect," said Col. Gregory Schnulo, commander of the 178th Wing. "She will ensure the MSG is very good at what they do."

The MSG consists of Civil Engineering, Communications, Force Support, Logistics Readiness and Security Forces.

Relinquishing command of the MSG, Col. Gene Hughes thanked the unit for their welcoming demeanor and praised the abilities of Coghlin.

"There is no one more qualified for this position than [Coghlin]," said Hughes.

Coghlin gave thanks for the opportunity to lead the MSG and outlined her priorities for the group to include performing for an upcoming inspection, future deployments, and training.

"It is very important to take care of our people," said Coghlin. She then emphasized increased professional development and deliberate mentoring for the Airmen in MSG.

The change of command ceremony is emblematic of military history and tradition.  During the reign of Frederick the Great of Prussia, organizational flags were developed with various color arrangements and symbols unique to each unit.  Flags would be passed to the individual assuming command in front of the unit so that all could see their new leader assuming command position.