Col. Cauthen to Assume Command of 134th Air Refueling Wing

On April 5, 2011, a historic announcement was made at a Commanders Call in Spruance Hall. Col. Tim Dearing, Commander of the 134th Air Refueling Wing announced something that many had hoped would happen. Col. Dearing stood in front of the group and said, "The next commander for the 134 ARW will be...Col Tommy Cauthen." After thunderous applause broke out, the men and women of the 134 ARW got to take their first official look at the upcoming 10th wing commander of this highly decorated wing.

As many of you may already know, Col. Cauthen has been a long time member of this unit. A native of Jefferson County, Col. Cauthen joined the Tennessee Air National Guard in July 1984. He accepted a commission in December 1984 through the Air National Guard Academy of Military Science and earned his pilot wings from Reese Air Force Base, Texas in February 1986.

Throughout his career, he has been fortunate to hold numerous commander positions within the 134 ARW to include the Air Refueling Squadron, Maintenance Squadron, Maintenance Group, Vice Wing and soon to be Wing Commander. His dedication to the mission and the unit as a whole has contributed immensely to the stellar reputation and legacy that resides within the base.

"It will be an honor and privilege to serve as the 134 ARW Commander, said Col. Cauthen. Because my dad served in the 134th from 1958 until 1983 and I joined in 1984, this wing has been an important part of my life for the past 50 years."

Additionally, Col. Cauthen stated, "The 134th has always been a premier unit and our recent selection for an unprecedented 12th Air Force Outstanding Unit Award proves it once again. To have grown up in this wing and now serve as the Commander is very humbling."

The official change of command ceremony is scheduled for June 4 on the base Parade Field. During that ceremony, Col. Cauthen will officially assume command of the wing. Please be sure to congratulate Col. Cauthen on his well deserved selection as the next wing commander