VanHerck assumes command of the 7th Bomb Wing

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Damon Kasberg
  • 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Col. Glen D. VanHerck assumed command of the 7th Bomb Wing from Col. David B. Béen during a ceremony held in the three-bay hangar here July 3.

As commander, VanHerck is responsible for the health and welfare of more than 12,000 active duty members, civilian employees and family members. In addition, he provides combat-ready B-1 aircraft, crews and associated combat support for global engagement taskings.

VanHerck graduated from the University of Missouri in 1987 and was commissioned through the University's Reserve Officer Training Corps program. In January of 1989 he received his wings, and throughout his career has flown the T-1A, T-6A, T-37, T-38A, A/T-38B, T-38C, F-15A/B/C/D and B2A for more than 3,000 flight hours.

"To be the leader, commander at the 7th Bomb Wing, is an incredible opportunity," VanHerck said during the ceremony. "With incredible opportunity also comes responsibility."

Though he has thousands of flight hours in various aircraft, VanHerck said its leading Airmen and serving his nation that keeps him going throughout his career.

"I've thought about it several times, doing something else besides what I'm doing," VanHerck said. "But it just doesn't get any better than leading airmen, serving our nation, our department of defense, and making bad people go away on a daily basis - that's what our nation needs us to do."

Through an extensive and successful Air Force career, VanHerck has not lost sight of what is important, people.

"You don't get to this position without a lot of support, support from people from day one all the way through to today," VanHerck said. "If you think I got here by myself, you're mistaken. It was a team effort, with a lot of mentoring."

VanHerck said he doesn't plan on making significant changes right away, but he does ask the wing to do four simple things.

"Efficiently, effectively and safely execute the mission that we have every day, while training for tomorrow's mission," he said. "We'll continue to take care of our people and families, promote a healthy environment that is fun and focus on growing leaders."

Prior to arriving at Dyess, VanHerck commanded at the squadron and group level. He also held staff assignments at Headquarters Air Combat Command and the United States Strategic Command.