JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS, Va. –
The 733d Mission Support Group welcomed a new commander during a change of command ceremony held at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, June 25, 2020, at the Eustis Club. U.S Army Col. Chesley Thigpen, Jr., assumed command of the 733d MSG from U.S. Army Col. Jennifer Walkawicz.
U.S. Air Force Col. Clinton Ross, 633d Air Base Wing commander, officiated the ceremony, offering some praise for Walkawicz and insight to Thigpen.
“Your tenure at JBLE has undoubtedly been one of continuous change and uncertainty, but I am pleased to emphasize to everyone that you have done nothing but excel and set a phenomenal example as a Soldier and a leader,” said Ross. “Col. Thigpen, I can’t make any guarantees but much like Col. Walkawicz, I expect your tour will be one of change and uncertainty. The fight against COVID-19 is not over and hurricane season is around the corner. I have full confidence in your ability to lead this group and continue this tradition of resilience and success.”
Thigpen was previously a student at the United States Army National War College where he earned a Master’s Degree in National Security Strategic Studies before assuming command of the 733d MSG.
“I will continue Jenn’s approach to focus on integration, coordination across institutions and organizations to ensure the readiness of our supported units and the installation,” said Thigpen. “Thanks again to everyone for the continued support to Joint Base Langley-Eustis. People First. Army Strong.”
Attendees, both in person and virtually, were able to bid farewell to Walkawicz who has been the 733d MSG commander for the last two years.
“I want to welcome Chesley and his beautiful family,” said Walkawicz. “We have known and worked around each other for quite a while, he is no stranger. I can stand up here with complete confidence and say that he is the right man for the right job at the right time, so I want to wish you the best of luck. Hang on tight. It will be quite a ride and you will never know what you will be doing on any given day. I also want to say, Chesley, take the job seriously but don’t take yourself too serious.”
Walkawicz will move on to serve at the Pentagon, Washington D.C.
To watch the 733d Mission Support Group Change of Command, follow the link below.