A new chapter has begun at the Youngstown Air Reserve Station (YARS), as Col. Christopher E. Sedlacek formally assumed command of the 910th Airlift Wing during an Assumption of Command Ceremony held Sunday morning.

Sedlacek takes over following his most recent assignment as commander of the 302nd Airlift Wing at Peterson Space Force Base in Colorado. With more than 3,500 flight hours — including over 370 in combat — Sedlacek brings extensive operational experience to his new role. He was commissioned through the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1997 and has served in the Air Force Reserve since 2004.

“What I'm looking forward to the most is engaging with this great team,” Sedlacek said in an interview after the ceremony. “And when I say team, I include both the team here at the 910th and also the community partnerships that we have.”

Presiding over the event was Maj. Gen. Melissa A. Coburn, commander of the 22nd Air Force, who praised Sedlacek’s leadership style and readiness to take on this new responsibility. “You're going to see exemplary leadership,” she said. “He's a team builder. He's very confident. He's got a lot of experience. He's going to be a great wing commander.”

The ceremony included military traditions such as the symbolic passing of the guide-on, as well as national anthem performances and remarks from both Sedlacek and Coburn.

During his speech, Sedlacek emphasized a leadership approach rooted in communication, innovation, and a deep respect for service members and their families.

“Each and every one of you plays a vital role in our success and to that of our nation in supporting you,” he said, speaking directly to members of the wing.

The 910th Airlift Wing’s mission includes tactical airlift and aerial spray operations. In the coming years, the base will undergo a major transition to newer C-130J model aircraft, a change Sedlacek is preparing to lead through. He acknowledged the challenge of balancing operations and staffing during the conversion but expressed confidence in the wing’s ability to adapt.

“We must continue to be agile and innovative, transforming for the future and remaining combat ready,” he said.

Sedlacek said he looks forward to strengthening relationships with the Mahoning Valley community and continuing the wing’s tradition of excellence.

“This base has an outstanding history of partnership with the surrounding community,” he added. “I’m eager to be part of it.”