ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --
Just one day after the Air Force celebrated 78 years of airpower, Col. Johari Hemphill, 78th Air Base Wing commander, set his sights to the future, laying out his vision for the wing during his first all call at Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, Sept. 19, 2025.
The Philadelphia native and avid Eagles fan gave the wing a look into his family life and Air Force career across 25 years and 15 duty assignments before sharing plans for his command at Robins AFB.
Hemphill most recently served as the 22nd Mission Support Group commander at McConnell AFB, Kansas, but has also commanded two logistics squadrons and been stationed abroad in Turkey and South Korea.
“I’ve been to some cool places and met some amazing people, just like I’ve already met here,” Hemphill said. “At the end of the day, wherever I go, it’s always about people.”
Hemphill focused his vision for the future on continuing the mission success the 78th ABW has achieved so far and encouraging Airmen to lead by example.
“There are a lot of great folks out here doing great things. I’m here to make sure we sustain the good things you are doing and help you knock down those barriers that are in the way,” he said. “Being a leader, for me, means this – that you get up every day and lead yourself and those around you. The Air Force expects us to get up every day and do that.”
Hemphill also emphasized the importance of resiliency, encouraging Airmen to lean on their teammates and take care of themselves.
“Take your leave. When you need it, take it,” he said. “Take care of each other through difficult times. Everybody is going through difficult things in their life outside of what the Air Force, the Department of War and the world is going through.”
“You are now part of my family,” Hemphill added. “I'm here for you. We’re here for each other. If you need something, say something.”
He also celebrated some of the achievements that 78th ABW Airmen accomplished in 2025.
“You guys are crushing it. We’re doing great things for the local area, for the Air Force, for our nation, for our allies and partners,” said Hemphill. “And we’re the best at it.”