New commander takes charge of the Logistics Readiness Squadron Published Sept. 21, 2016 By Staff Sgt. Rachel Kocin 910th Airlift Wing Public Affairs YOUNGSTOWN AIR RESERVE STATION, Ohio -- Maj. Robert Wengerter assumed command of the 910th Logistics Readiness Squadron during a ceremony here, Sept. 10, 2016. The outgoing commander was Lt. Col. Mark Hirselj. Col. Donald Wren, 910th Mission Support Group commander, presided over the ceremony. “As I look around the command and as I talk with people around the command, Rob’s name always comes up,” said Wren. “He’s truly one of the emerging leaders here.” Wengerter is no newcomer to YARS, he has spent time as a former Operations Officer for the 76th Aerial Port squadron. During the event, Wengerter talked about being honored and humbled to take command of the squadron. “To the men and women of the LRS Squadron, winning takes more than talent and hard work, it takes an attitude that says I will,” said Wengerter. “Be better than your best, take care of each other and be the champions I know you are.” The change of command ceremony, during which the previous and incoming commander exchange a unit flag, is deeply rooted in history and tradition. The flag exchange dates back to the time of Frederick the Great of Prussia when military organizations developed unique flags. When soldiers followed their leaders into battle, if the flag still waved after the conflict, it was a sign of victory. Having this position of great importance, the flag was incorporated into ancient assumption of command ceremonies. The ceremony remains symbolic today.