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New commander for Guam Air National Guard
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Posted on Apr 10 2020
A change of command ceremony was held on Friday, April 3, at the Guard’s Readiness Center in Barrigada. Col. Christopher Faurot, left, incoming commander, salutes Brig. Gen. Johnny S. Lizama, right, Assistant Adjutant General – Air, Guam National Guard, as he assumes command. Also pictured is Chief Master Sgt. Luis Camacho, second from left, guidon bearer; and Col. D. Graham Botha, second from right, outgoing commander, via Facetime. (GUAM NATIONAL GUARD)
In a ceremony that ensured all guidelines were followed with regards to COVID-19 policies, the Guam Air National Guard held a change of command ceremony last Friday, April 3, at the Guard’s Readiness Center, in Barrigada.
Col. Christopher “Frenchy” Faurot took command of the Guam Air National Guard’s 254th Air Base Group during a ceremony officiated by Brig. Gen. Johnny S. Lizama, Assistant Adjutant General – Air, Guam National Guard, at the Guard’s Readiness Center, in Barrigada, while the outgoing commander, Col. D. Graham Botha, participated via Facetime as he was adhering to quarantine policies.
Additionally, less than 10 service members were the room, social distancing was practiced, and all participants were wearing personal protective equipment.
Lizama thanked Botha for his leadership for the past 16 months. “I’d like to thank you for your outstanding service. Being commander is not an easy job. It’s one of the loneliest jobs, but it’s also one of the most rewarding jobs you’ll ever have. Thank you for taking care of the men and women of the Guam Air National Guard. Thank you for being a leader. For those that needed leadership and guidance, thank you for being that pillar of leadership”.
In a traditional change of command ceremony, the guidon would have been passed to the incoming commander in front of all airmen of the Guam Air National Guard. However, the ceremony still held true to military tradition, and all customs and courtesies were followed and given to the leaders present. After Botha relinquished command, Faurot saluted and said, “Sir, I assume command.” All authority and responsibility for the 254th Air Base Group transfers immediately to him. Additionally, the trust and allegiance of all airmen transfers to their newly appointed commander.
Faurot thanked Maj. Gen. Esther J.C. Aguigui, The Adjutant General of the Guam National Guard, for the opportunity. “I look forward to taking this organization and moving it forward and getting it through this current COVID-19 crisis. Command at any level is an honor,” he said. (PR)
