FORT BRAGG, N.C. -- The U.S. Army Special Operations Aviation Command welcomed Col. Allan M. Pepin as its newest commander in an Assumption of Command ceremony at Meadows Field, here, June 22.
Pepin will be the fifth commander of the organization since its activation in October 2012.
Lt. Gen. Francis M. Beaudette, commanding general, U.S. Army Special Operations Command, presided over the event.
"Surveying this command's actions since 2012, it's perfectly clear that USASOAC has, in short order, distinguished itself as the most versatile, lethal and flexible aviation force available anywhere in the world," he said. "This is an elite organization. One that personifies proficiency and unparalleled precision."
USASOAC's subordinate units, their command teams and colors stood in formation during the ceremony.
"You're taking the helm of an organization full of exceptional leaders capable of successfully combatting the most complex challenges across the spectrum of conflict," Beaudette said. "Al is the perfect and inspired choice to lead this incredible organization into the future."
Gold Star Families, local community leaders and friends of USASOAC witnessed the ceremony to welcome Pepin and his family.
In his first address as the USASOAC commander, Pepin recognized the responsibility he now assumes.
"I am humbled by the trust and confidence Generals Beaudette and Thomas placed in me to command this great unit and accountability and responsibility which goes with command," he said.
"Lt. Gen. Beaudette, I look forward to contributing to the great SOF (special operations forces) team of teams and to continue the support of unmatched warfighting capability while remaining integrated with Army Aviation and the Army Enterprise to meet our future readiness and capability requirements," said Pepin.
A career Army Aviator, Pepin's most recent assignment was executive officer for the commanding general of U.S. Forces Command headquartered here at Fort Bragg.
He has served in conventional and special operations organizations at several echelons, including the 101st Air Assault Division, Fort Campbell, Kentucky; 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne), Fort Campbell Kentucky; 1-145th Aviation Regiment, Fort Rucker, Alabama; 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, North Carolina; and 3rd Infantry Division, Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia.
"At the core of all we do must be the unwavering professionalism and values as we support the ground forces, our constitution, our leaders and the American people who entrust us with this great responsibility," he said.
USASOAC organizes, mans, trains, resources and equips Army Special Operations Aviation units which provide responsive, special operations aviation capability to the Joint Force.
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