TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Nine Airmen from the 726th Air Control Squadron were sworn into the U.S. Space Force on Feb. 19, 2021.
A transfer of this magnitude has not happened since the Air Force separated from the Army Air Forces in 1947.
“Today, we are a part of history. Two services, coming out of one, said presiding officer, Lt. Col. Kevin Fletcher. “Looking at these members here today, I can say we have done the right thing. We have a group of people with very specific skillsets to support this endeavor. We have some great ’Hardrocker’ Guardians selected.”
During the ceremony, each member selected an individual to perform the removal of the United States Air Force tape and insignias and the application of the United States Space Force tape and insignias. This person was key in assisting the honorees along this journey through mentorship, guidance, and counsel.
Master Sgt. Nathan Jessee was selected as a mentor and said, “I was very honored to have been selected by Senior Amn. Osterhoudt. It was great to be a part of history. We served together in Iraq and he is a very talented Airman with a great personality. I wish him the best on his next chapter in life!”
The oath of enlistment was administered by Captain Sara L. Wolfson who completed her oath of office, commissioning into the United States Space Force on February 5, 2021.
“Having had the opportunity early on in my career to see how critical our space assets are and how rapidly space capabilities are evolving, I was honored to be a part of this monumental occasion,” said Wolfson. “This is the start of a new chapter for our Guardians and I look forward to seeing them grow and pave the way for our nation.”
These newly inducted Guardians will continue to serve as Hardrockers pending their assignment notifications to serve at United States Space Force locations. This process is expected to be completed by 2023.
The following are the former Airmen that transferred to the USSF: