BUCKLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Headquarters Air Reserve Personnel Center welcomed its new commander during a change of command ceremony on Buckley Air Force Base, Colo., May. 21, 2021. Brig. Gen. Jennie Johnson succeeded Col. Keli Smiley during the ceremony, officiated virtually by Lt. Gen. Richard Scobee, Chief of Air Force Reserve, Commander, Air Force Reserve Command.
Scobee began the ceremony by recognizing Smileys leadership during her time as commander of ARPC.
“Today we say farewell to Colonel Smiley as the outgoing ARPC commander,” said Scobee. “When you arrived, we gave you a tough job – to take care of Airmen across every component of our force, including our retired members. Regardless of component, everyone eventually finds a home here at ARPC.”
“You have led ARPC through historically challenging times while still racking up some amazing achievements,” said Scobee. “You should be proud of what your team has accomplished under your leadership. I know I am.”
In her final address as commander, Smiley spoke to the important mission of the unit and how proud she was to be a part of it.
“It’s been an absolute honor to work with the men and women of ARPC these past years,” said Smiley. “I was honored to support each of you as we continued to drive forward towards the ARPC vision to be the innovative leader in personnel services throughout the Airmen lifecycle.”
Addressing HQ ARPC for the first time as commander, Johnson spoke to all Airmen and civilians present, both physically and virtually.
“This is the one place I always wanted to come serve with all you,” said Johnson. “I am incredibly excited to be a part of the diverse active, guard, reserved and civilian team.”
As HQ ARPC commander, Johnson is responsible for personnel support to nearly 1.3 million Air National Guard, Air Force Reserve and retired members. From initial entry to retirement, the center provides world-class support for generations of Airmen throughout the Airman Lifecycle.
During her remarks, Johnson spoke about the importance of the HQ ARPC mission.
“This unit is the only organization that has the distinction of serving generations of Airmen, 1.3 million Airmen,” said Johnson. “We have a unique opportunity to enhance career and positively impact every Airmen’s quality of service.”