Airfield operations officers tagged for command Published Nov. 8, 2011 By Debbie Gildea Air Force Personnel, Services and Manpower Public Affairs RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- In an Air Force first, the Airfield Operations Development Team met here and selected 10 majors and lieutenant colonels for squadron command from their own career field central selection board, Air Force Personnel Center officials announced. Functional development teams meet annually at AFPC to consider eligible officers for command and professional military education opportunities, said AFPC assignment officer Maj. Mario Verrett. Eligible officers identified as candidates on the command list who were not matched for command will remain on the candidate roster, which AFPC uses to fill unanticipated command vacancies, he explained. "Not all candidates will be selected for command because typically there are more eligible candidates than positions," said the major. "In the past, airfield operations officers were selected from major command central selection boards along with candidates from multiple career fields." Officers are vectored for command early in their careers so that when they are promoted to field grade (major), they have met the milestones that indicate they are successful leaders and prepared to command, the major explained. "All officers on the squadron command candidates list are considered volunteers for worldwide command opportunities, including indeterminate temporary duty," he added. Officers interested in command must ensure their Airman Development Plan clearly indicates that they are interested. Opportunities for command must be offered to those who are truly ready, said Verrett. "Squadron commanders have a huge role in developing and sustaining our forces and in helping achieve our mission," the major said. "They impact our future, so they must be ready, willing and committed to success." For more information about command opportunities and other personnel issues, visit the Air Force Personnel Services website at https://gum-crm.csd.disa.mil.