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U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Caroline Tetrick, 435th Training Squadron incoming commander, gives remarks during the squadron’s Change of Command on Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, May 28, 2025.The 435th TRS provides critical support in air mobility, education, and full-spectrum command and control instruction, with a continued emphasis on improving operational tactics, techniques, and procedures. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Violette Hosack)

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Col. Sarah Kaiser, U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Operations School commandant, left, and Lt. Col. Caroline Tetrick, 435th TRS incoming commander, passes the guidon during the 435th TRS Change of Command on Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, May 28, 2025.The 435th TRS provides critical support in air mobility, education, and full-spectrum command and control instruction, with a continued emphasis on improving operational tactics, techniques, and procedures. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Violette Hosack)

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Col. Sarah Kaiser, U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Operations School commandant, receives a salute from Lt. Col. Zachary Unger, 435th Training Squadron outgoing commander, during the 435th TRS Change of Command on Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, May 28, 2025. Focused on readiness, the 435th TRS provides mobility training and refines operational tactics. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Violette Hosack)

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Col. Sarah Kaiser, U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Operations School commandant, left, and Lt. Col. Zachary Unger, 435th Training Squadron outgoing commander, pass the guidon during the 435th TRS Change of Command on Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, May 28, 2025. The 435th TRS provides critical support in air mobility, education, and full-spectrum command and control instruction, with a continued emphasis on improving operational tactics, techniques, and procedures. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Violette Hosack)

435th Training Squadron welcomes new commander

Published Aug. 4, 2025
By U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center Public Affairs
U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center

JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. --

The 435^th Training Squadron welcomed a new commander during Change of Command ceremonies that took place last month at Scott Air Force Base.

Lt. Col. Caroline Tetrick assumed command of the 435^th TRS, succeeding Lt. Col. Zach Unger. The ceremony was comprised of family members, special guests, and squadron members.

“Lt. Col. Unger, words can’t fully express my appreciation and humble admiration as you leave this team even better than when you arrived,” said Col. Sarah Kaiser, commandant of the U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Operations School and presiding official. “You took a newly formed squadron, with distinct cultures and operating locations, and forged it into a premiere training unit – a testament to your vision and dedication.”

Tetrick previously served as the director of operations of the 721^st Contingency Response Squadron, overseeing Airmen across 35 separate career fields to provide U.S. Transportation Command with a rapidly deployable force capable of responding within hours of notification to any location in the world to provide airfield opening and sustained port operations.

After taking the guidon, Tetrick shared her view on leadership.

“The relationships and connections we have with each other and with our students and course owners are the most critical element to our success,” Tetrick said. “I promise to do my best to learn from you with curiosity and humility, and to lead you with compassion, empathy, and energy.”

Kaiser also highlighted the art of leadership to achieve a common goal.

“The mantle of command carries great responsibility: here, that includes the growth and well-being of this squadron, and the execution of the 435^th TRS mission to train and educate all-domain command and control mobility warfighters.”

The ceremony finished by highlighting the importance of connection and purpose within the squadron.

“Each member of the 435^th brings unique skills and perspectives that contribute to our collective success,” Kaiser said. “Lt Col Tetrick, I have full confidence that under your guidance, the 435^th TRS will continue to excel. Your blend of technical expertise, leadership experience, and commitment to excellence makes you well-suited for this command.”