YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan – -- Maj. Tim Krystosek assumed command of the 374th Comptroller Squadron from Lt. Col. Ryan Abel during a change of command ceremony at Yokota Air Base, Japan, June 13, 2023.

Col. Andrew Roddan, 374th Airlift Wing commander, presided over the ceremony, and the event was attended by family members of the incoming and outgoing commanders, members of the 374th CPTS, and representatives from across the base.

“This team has left an indelible mark on me, as I’ve watched the professionalism and commitment you bring to this wing's mission and to each other,” Abel said. “I will miss the relationships we forged during this time and I’m sincerely grateful for the opportunity to have been your commander these past two years.”

Abel leaves with several noteworthy accomplishments to include leading a diverse 180 member team across 16 agencies, increasing overall readiness and well-being while integrating 20 commander programs to assist in enabling the wing’s mission. Abel also managed a $750 million annual budget, supporting over 18 thousand flying hours, and resourced 27 combatant command and Pacific Air Forces Command exercises, resulting in an increase in partnership-building efforts and credible deterrence for the Indo-Pacific region.

The change of command ceremony is a tradition dating back to the Roman era, where military leaders would pass a baton, colors, standards, or ensigns that symbolized the passing of command to subordinates in attendance, and ensured unit members were never without official leadership or a continuation of trust.

“Command of this squadron is an absolute honor and a privilege,” Krystosek said. “We will continue to find innovative ways to serve our Airmen,and continue to help accomplish the mission of the 374th Airlift Wing.”

The 374th CPTS is responsible for providing fiscally responsible resource management, auditable and timely financial services, and actionable decision support for units and Airmen across Yokota Air Base.

Photo Caption: Col. Andrew Roddan, 374th Airlift Wing commander (left), takes a squadron guidon from Lt. Col. Ryan Abel, former 374th Comptroller Squadron commander, as part of a change of command ceremony at Yokota Air Base, Japan, June 13, 2023. Maj. Tim Krystosek assumed command of the 374th CPTS from Abel. The change of command ceremony is a tradition dating back to the Roman era, where military leaders would pass batons, colors, standards, or ensigns that symbolized the passing of command to subordinates in attendance, and ensured unit members were never without official leadership or a continuation of trust.

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