On 7th April, Colonel John F.Newell, commander of 374th Airlift Wing and Yokota AB.) received transfer order to Washington DC..　After the change of command ceremony on 14th April, he left Japan busily.　His duty in Japan is about 1 year 10 months.
　　Transfer order this time was very sudden for successor, Col. Murcus J.Hicks too, so he just came to Japan to attend the change of command ceremony and soon returned to USA in order to prepare for new post, then he was back to Japan again, so exceptional.　The preparation for the ceremony was very serious, persons concerned said.
　　The change of command ceremony under executor, Rice 5AF commander, was carried out at No.15 hanger near Yokota AB apron area.　At the ceremony Gen.Rice introduced old and new commanders to ceremony participants, he appreciated that Col.Newell harmoniously had achieved his many kinds of mission.　And general praised Col.Newell made effort very much for mutual understand and mutual trust between neighbors of Yokota AB, he pointed this effort was essential element for alliance between US and Japan.　Gen.Rice requested successor Col.Hicks who had worked together to strive for new assignment with his full ability.
　　Col.Newell returned the commander's flag to commander Rice, and Gen.Rice gave it to Col.Hicks.　Finally all participants did sing "Air Force Song" in unison, then ceremony was closed.　After then we moved to the Officers' Club and greeted with Col.& Mrs.Hicks for first meeting there.　(reported by secretariat Bandoh)