Chiefs Gould and Gallant are ready for the challenge

  • Published
  • By Maj. Bryon Turner
  • 103rd Airlift Wing, Public Affairs
The Airmen of the 103rd Airlift Wing said farewell to Wing Command Chief Master Sgt. Edward Gould and welcomed Chief Master Sgt. Robert Gallant who was hand-picked to serve as the wing's new command chief May 4,2014.

Gould departed the organization to serve as the new Connecticut Joint Force Headquarters Command Chief Master Sgt., filling the void left by retired Command Chief Master Sgt. John Carter III.

"Chief Gould established a very close rapport with commanders and wing leadership in order to effectively lead the enlisted force within the wing. He dedicated himself to ensuring enlisted issues were at the forefront throughout a very long period of many transitions within the wing, and was a champion for enlisted professional development," said Col. Frederick Miclon, vice commander, 103rd Airlift Wing. "I am confident he will pick up where Chief Carter left off and continue to influence and direct the enlisted force within the state."

As the State Command Chief Master Sgt., Gould will advise the Adjutant General on all matters involving the enlisted force, a role similar to the one he successfully carried out here, where he advised wing-level leadership.

"It is an honor to have been selected to serve as your State Command Chief Master Sgt.," said Gould. "I look forward to serving in my new role as your enlisted advisor to the Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. Martin."

Wing Command Chief Master Sgt. Robert Gallant is a 37-year veteran of the Connecticut Air National Guard, formerly assigned to the 103rd Air Control Squadron, Orange Air National Guard Station, Orange, Conn. During his time there he oversaw computer, radar and ground radio maintenance activities in support of the unit's command and control mission.

"I'm grateful and honored to have been offered this chance to serve the men and women of the 103rd Airlift Wing," said Gallant. "I'm very excited about this opportunity and looking forward to having a lasting and positive impact on our enlisted force."

Gallant's insights into the wing's missions and the unit's overall level of readiness will aid senior leadership as they continue to guide the unit through a time of mission conversion.
"I look forward to working with Chief Gallant and other leadership of the Connecticut Air National Guard as we continue the process of deliberate development of the enlisted force," said Gould.

Technical training and professional military education for all enlisted members of the 103rd Airlift Wing will be an area of focus, said Gallant.

"The wing will be in very good hands with Chief Gallant," said Miclon. "With over 37 years of service he is acutely aware of the demands on the enlisted force. His exemplary leadership skills will serve us well as he transitions into the wing and we look forward to having him as a member of the wing leadership team."