One of the largest employers in Klamath Falls is under new management tonight…following a change of command at Kingsley Field.
A crowd of nearly a thousand was on hand for the change of command from Col. Jeffrey Silver to Col. Jeremy Baenen.
Col. Baenen says he’s looking forward to the challenges ahead…
“We’ve got the potential for an increase in our flying operations here – and of course, that’s proposed at this point – but with any luck, we’ll have that mission bedded down here as well.”
Outgoing commander Col. Silver is taking on an assignment in Afganistan…but he says there’s a good chance he’ll return to Klamath Falls…
“I will be moving back to Portland. But my wife and I are actually thinking of buying a piece of property down here for later on, because we love it so much.”
The new commander of the 173rd Fighter Wing, Col. Baenen,says he’s optimistic about the future of the base…
“We’ve got challenges ahead. That brings opportunities for the base, and for the community – and I’m very optimistic that we’ll meet all those challenges.”
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