F-16 Fighting Falcon News

May 5, 2008 (by SrA Philip Grom) - May 4th, 2008 marks the end of an era, and the start of a new one for the 174th Fighter Wing, Hancock Field, Syracuse, NY. Col. Anthony B. Basile has been the Wing Commander of the 174th Fighter Wing since 2003.
In addition to his command duties, in his career he has piloted F-16 and A-10 aircraft for roughly 2500 hours on the F-16, and additional 950 hours on the A-10 during his commission in Syracuse. After such a long and decorated career he is relinquishing his command to another familiar face for members of the 174th FW.

"This change of command today is not just part of what the 174th does, but does well, and it's the way it should be," said Maj. Gen. Robert A. Knauff, New York Air National Guard Commander. "This is a great occasion for the 174th, and members of the entire community," said Knauff.

"I'm where I am because of you," said a teary eyed Basile during his final address to the members of Hancock Field during today's change of command ceremony.

Basile said he couldn't have handled the job without the support of unit members, and more importantly his family. "I've missed your birthdays, holidays, school functions, and put you through the terror of combat, and you never complained one bit," said Basile.

In regard to his new replacement, Basile said, "You deserve this wing, but more importantly this wing deserves you".

Enter Col. Kevin Bradley who addressed unit members as the new Wing Commander for the 174th Wing. "I am very humbled to stand before you as the 11th Wing Commander in this unit's history," said Bradley. "I am taking this position following in the footsteps of someone extremely special," said Bradley.

"Hancock Field is positioned to accept new positions and new growth," said Bradley.

Bradley is bringing a plethora of experience to his new position. Prior to becoming Vice Wing Commander, he served as the 174th Fighter Wing Operations Group Commander, located in Syracuse, New York.

In addition to leadership experience, he has command pilot experience, with over 3200 hours in the T-37, T-38 and F-16 aircraft. He has flown combat missions in support of Operation Provide Comfort, Operation Northern Watch, Operation Southern Watch and Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Although Basile will no longer be the acting commander of the 174th FW, he has been nominated to become the new commander of the New York Air National Guard.