HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – Base officials held a change of responsibility ceremony here July 9 to mark the transition of command chief duties from Chief Master Sgt. Alan Weary to Chief Master Sgt. Jason Vollmer.
The ceremony, a first-ever at Hanscom AFB, was officiated by Col. Taona Enriquez.
“This [ceremony] demonstrates to the formation that the responsibility has passed to the new senior enlisted leader,” said Enriquez, who will relinquish command of the 66th Air Base Group July 10 to Col. Jorge Jimenez.
The transfer of responsibility was symbolized through the passing of the ABG guidon, a military custom that represents the change of leadership.
Upon accepting his new role, Vollmer addressed members of the air base group.
“To Team Hanscom, and to the amazing Airmen of the 66th Air Base Group, I appreciate you adding me to your team,” he said. “My door is always open for you all -- I’m ready to get to work.”
In his role, Vollmer will advise Jimenez on matters concerning the welfare, health, morale, proper utilization, training, and development of more than 10,000 active duty, Reserve, National Guard, Department of Defense civilians and contractors across the New England area.
Vollmer previously served as the senior enlisted leader of the 350th Spectrum Warfare Group at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida.
The new Hanscom AFB senior enlisted leader thanked his predecessor during his remarks.
“I admire your positivity and your quest to lovingly connect with all of your Airmen,” said Vollmer. “You have welcomed me and Jennifer with open arms and I’m truly grateful for your professionalism and for your friendship.”
Weary has served as the installation commander chief since June 2022.
He is credited with numerous quality-of-life initiatives, enhancing the readiness program, and was a key member of a leadership team driven to connect with the local community.
During his remarks, Weary expressed his gratitude and pride while serving as the installation’s senior enlisted leader.
“Serving as your command chief has been the most incredible career privilege I’ve had,” he said. “I am immensely proud of the dedication, professionalism and resilience demonstrated by every CEO [civilian, enlisted and officer] in our group.”
Weary will retire later this year after more than 25 years of service in the Air Force.