ABW welcomes new commander Published June 29, 2012 By Christopher Kratzer Air University Public Affairs MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. -- Col. Trent Edwards assumed command of the 42nd Air Base Wing Thursday during a change of command ceremony at Maxwell Air Force Base. Edwards took command from Colonel Killough, who now goes to New York City as the Air Force Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations. Leaving Maxwell will be bittersweet for Killough, who has been the wing commander since 2010. "I have really enjoyed the opportunities to get to know, work for and lead the fantastic Airmen here at Maxwell," Killough said. "(I have) an incredible appreciation for the quality of our Air Force and the job each Airman does every day. Also, how vitally important our families are, how much they serve and sacrifice on a daily basis." Killough assured people at the 42nd Air Base Wing that they were being left in very capable hands. "Col Trent Edwards comes to us after a very successful command of the mission support group at Ellsworth Air Force Base, South Dakota. He is from the financial management career field and comes highly recommended from subordinates, coworkers and commanders alike. He has experience with Congress and headquarters staffs and will bring that big-picture expertise to the great team here at Maxwell," Killough said. "His family is going to be a perfect fit for 'the best hometown in the Air Force.'" Edwards thanked the Killoughs for helping to make the transition as smooth as possible "I had a terrific personal experience with Col. Killough and his family. He and his entire family made us feel very welcomed and it was a smooth transition," Edwards said. "We are thankful for his focus on Airmen and families and they will continue to be a top priority." While this will be Edwards' first command at Maxwell, he is no stranger to the area. "My experiences and connection to Maxwell began when I attended Squadron Officer School in 1994 and then again when I attended Air War College from 2007-2008," Edwards said. "On both occasions, I enjoyed Maxwell and the River Region area." Edwards will bring a focus on three core areas during his tenure at Maxwell. He said the key to being a premier air base wing is "combat and operational readiness, sustaining a world-class installation and developing Airmen and civilian leaders." Edwards is looking forward to having the opportunity to serve alongside the men and women of the 42nd ABW. "Assuming command of the 42nd Air Base Wing means I'll have the opportunity to lead and work with some of the finest Airmen and civilians in our United States Air Force," he said. "It is very exciting and I am humbled by the trust and confidence the Air Force has placed in me. I will be committed to the mission and the people."