CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. – U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Christoffer Tidwell took command of the 6th Special Operations Squadron during a ceremony that also realigned the squadron under the 492nd Special Operations Wing, July 9, 2024, here. Simultaneously, the 6th Special Operations Aircraft Maintenance Squadron was activated under the 492nd SOW, with U.S. Air Force Maj. Patrick Britton assuming command of the squadron.
The 6th SOS’ transition from the 27th Special Operations Wing and the 6th SOAMXS’ activation under the 492nd SOW are part of a previously announced force restructure by Air Force Special Operations Command, stemming from the 2023 AFSOC strategic guidance which aligns with the 2022 National Defense Strategy.
The 492nd SOW’s transformation to a power projection wing enables it to encompass all AFSOC’s mission capabilities: precision strike; specialized air mobility; Special Operations Forces Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR); and SOF air-to-ground integration.
“Our wing’s priorities – mission, transformation and people – will guide us forward as we support our national defense priorities,” said U.S. Air Force Col. Patrick Wnetrzak, 492nd SOW commander. “The 6th Special Operations Squadron’s priorities will seamlessly nest within these guiding principles, ensuring that we achieve operational success while caring for our most valuable asset: our people.”
This realignment and the pursuit of transformational capabilities provide AFSOC and joint force commanders with a competitive advantage, such as more training opportunities, increased operational capacity and enhanced focus on NDS priorities.
“To the Airmen of the 6th Special Operations Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, I urge you to embrace this moment with pride and commitment,” Wnetrzak said. “You are part of a legacy of excellence, innovation and courage. Let these values guide you as you support our operations and contribute to our nation’s security.”
Additional unit realignments will take place over time and culminate with the relocation of the 492nd SOW. Currently, an Environmental Impact Statement is being developed for the 492nd SOW relocation to Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz.