Meet the 18th CEG commander

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  • By 18 Wing
  • Public Affairs
KADENA AIR BASE, Japan --  U.S. Air Force Col. Dwayne Robison took command of the 18th Civil Engineer Group July 2, at Kadena Air Base, Japan. Below is a Q-and-A providing his thoughts on his new job and new home.

What do you hope to bring to the 18th Civil Engineer Group during your time as commander?

I see my role as ensuring our members (Airmen, US civilian, and Japanese civilian) have the proper guidance, training, and resources to conduct their assigned tasks in support of Team Kadena's missions while also ensuring they have the time to take care of themselves, their families, and each other.

18 CEG has a tradition of excellence, credibility and professionalism in everything they do. Under Col Schneider's leadership, the group epitomized those traits. I certainly hope to  continue them.

What do you expect of the Airmen under your command?

My philosophy is really quite simple and it is not new: treat people like you would want to be treated.

How does this translate to what we do?

Well, I expect professionalism and being the best at what we do and how we contribute. I expect us to take care of ourselves (professional development, physically, mentally, spiritually), our subordinates, each other, and all our families ... for those that have them. I expect us to be good stewards. We must take care of what we have, spend the taxpayers' money wisely, have empathy and compassion for our customers, and positively represent our country while serving here in Japan. I expect us to always grow and learn; never pass up opportunities to  evelop leadership and problem solving skills. Our Air Force is great because of our most important asset, our people. Finally, I expect us to follow/enforce the standards, and importantly, speak up and out loud when we see something wrong.

How do you feel about Kadena AB and living in Okinawa?

I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to serve our country. Being able to do that in Okinawa as part of Team Kadena ... well, it doesn't get much better than that!

Who inspires you and why?

Our personnel inspire me. We ask so much of them, and they deliver every time! The teamwork I have already seen at Kadena AB inspires me. Everyone coming together to make the mission happen, regardless of who gets the credit, is inspiring. I am honored to be here and excited to be a member of this great wing.