FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- Col. Johan Deutscher assumed command of the 141st Air Refueling Wing during a ceremony at the Red Morgan Center July 14.

Deutscher joins the 141st after serving as the commander of the 194th Mission Support Group, Camp Murray, Washington.

“I am honored to join this wing and truly humbled considering the history and legacy of this wing and its flying unit,” said Deutscher. “I look forward to continuing the wing’s current relationships, developing beneficial partnerships to tackle our future challenges, and investing in ways to enhance our collective success while achieving our missions and doing the right things for our people.”

Deutscher graduated from the United States Air Force Academy in 1996 and began his career as a pilot flying the F-15 Eagle. He is a command pilot with more than 2,100 flight hours. Over the course of his career, he has performed numerous duties to include: squadron flight commander, instructor pilot, Communication Flight commander, Logistics Readiness Squadron commander, and Deputy Commander Cyberspace Operations Group.

“I am humbled to assume the title of your commander and prouder still to join the ranks as a 141st Air Refueling Wing Airman,” said Deutscher. “Together we will always be ready to serve neighbor and nation.”

Brig. Gen. John Tuohy, Assistant Adjutant General and Washington Air National Guard commander, presided over the ceremony.