News

Throwback Thursday - June 9, 2022

  • Published
  • 78th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

 

Two years after a telegram announced Wellston would be the site of the new Army Air Field depot, Gen. Charles E. “Steve” Thomas, the depot commander, turned over his responsibilities as the installation commander to Lt. Col. Fredrick Bell June 16, 1943. Bell became the first “installation commander.” This new organization went into effect at Robins Field as a means of relieving the depot commander of support functions. Today this job is held by the 78th Air Base Wing commander, supported by the 2,700 personnel. This symbiotic relationship functions to make sure we can “Keep ‘Em Flying.”