JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii -- Members of the Air Force Reserve’s 48th Aerial Port Squadron here welcomed a new commander during an assumption of command ceremony April 7.
Maj. Kenneth Ruggles Jr., who has more than 25 years of Air Force experience, took command of the 48th APS.
“It’s my vision to continue to provide sustained expeditionary support of aerial port operations globally, and to make certain we’re all well trained and ready,” said Ruggles.
Col. Kenneth Lute, 624th Regional Support Group commander, congratulated the squadron on their continued contributions to the Air Force Reserve mission and provided words of support during the ceremony.
“The 48th continues the outstanding tradition of being ‘Pacific Warriors’ providing global agile combat support,” said Lute. “I have confidence that Maj. Ruggles will continue that tradition through effective leadership, and will lead by example.”
Ruggles has served with the 48th APS since 2008. He was previously the operations officer where he built professional relationships, provided mentorship, and leveraged his experience to help the 48th APS succeed.
“Maj. Ruggles is an excellent role model, mentor and leader,” said Chief Master Sgt. George Silva III, 48th APS operations superintendent. “He brings a wide-range of experience and is well-rounded, knowledgeable and fair, both professionally and personally.”
When not in a Reserve status, Ruggles works at U.S. Pacific Command in the Programming and Capabilities Branch as a civilian.
“My experience both as a military member and as a civilian has led me to this point,” said Ruggles. “I feel honored to lead these outstanding Reserve Citizen Airmen. I’m looking forward to motivating and providing support to our team as we continue to accomplish our goals.”
The 48th APS, which is part of the 624th RSG, deploys qualified personnel to provide air terminal operations worldwide in support of contingency operations, exercises, unit moves, and foreign humanitarian relief or disaster operations.