New commander takes Rough Rider reins

Published June 25, 2014
By Airman 1st Class Apryl Hall
Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs

MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Col. Michael Lutton assumed command of the 91st Missile Wing from Col. Robert Vercher during a change of command ceremony at Minot Air Force Base, N.D., June 24, 2014.

"Today, we say thank you to one such leader, Col. Rob Vercher, who has tirelessly worked to support the Airmen of the 91st Missile Wing and their families, while leading them to success after success," said Maj. Gen. Jack Weinstein, Twentieth Air Force commander and presiding officer of the ceremony. "As we say goodbye to one great leader, we are fortunate to welcome another. Col. Mike Lutton is a brilliant leader and the right person to take the wing's flag today. His experience and ability to lead Airmen are unquestioned."

Lutton arrived from Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, where he served as the deputy director of Mission Assessment and Analysis at United States Strategic Command Headquarters. In addition to his operations experience, Lutton completed staff tours at the Major Command and Headquarters Air Force levels. He is the 91st MW's 52nd commander.

"Thank you for the trust and confidence ... I am humbled by the responsibility and excited about the opportunity," Lutton said. "I look forward to our continued mission partnership, which is absolutely critical to our nation's maximum security."

The 91st MW is one of the Air Force's three operational missile units. Minuteman missiles allow the wing to achieve its mission: Defend the United States with combat-ready nuclear forces - on order conduct global strike. Consisting of the 91st Operations Group, 91st Maintenance Group and 91st Security Forces Group, the 91st MW has approximately 1,600 professionals working together to keep these missiles on alert.

"In this environment of culture change, Col. Mike Lutton is undoubtedly the right leader to take command of this wing today," Weinstein said.

Vercher will be heading to Offutt AFB to serve with USSTRATCOM.

"Thank you to our great Rough Rider Airmen. You inspired me each day I had the privilege to serve with you," Vercher said. "You are great, and I salute you proudly."