419th Mission Support Group welcomes new commander Published May 3, 2015 By Capt. Amber Balken 419th Fighter Wing Public Affairs HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah -- The 419th Mission Support Group welcomed a new commander during an assumption of command ceremony here today. Col. Michael Rothermel assumed command of the five support squadrons, that make up the MSG. "Although I haven't met all of you, I already know you," said Rothermel. "You are out here on a Sunday morning defending our freedom, and I appreciate that. You all raised your right hand and made the commitment to serve, and I intend to take that to the next level." Prior to his assignment with the 419th MSG Rothermel served chief of the assignments division at Air Force Reserve Personnel Center, Colorado. He graduated from Northern Arizona University and commissioned in 1989. Rothermel served on active duty before joining the Air Force Reserve in 2001. "Colonel Rothermel is not just a commander, he is a leader," said Col. Bryan Radliff, 419th Fighter Wing commander. "There is a reason he is here, he is the right person to lead you toward being an even more successful team."