JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS, Va. -- The Air Combat Command Operations Analysis Squadron (ACC OAS) hosted its first change of command ceremony, bidding farewell to Lt. Col. Micah Hafich and welcoming Lt. Col. Andrew Atkinson as the new commander, here on June 16, 2026.
Air Combat Command formally activated the data-focused squadron last year after two years of planning and development. The OAS is charged with carrying out operational analysis of data to assist ACC’s commanders and warfighters decision making.
Presiding over the ceremony was Maj. Gen. William Betts, Director of Plans, Programs and Requirements, Headquarters ACC, who highlighted the importance of the guidon exchange as the transferring of authority, a symbol of continuity of the mission, and the enduring trust of young leaders.
“Today we gather to celebrate the successful command of one leader,” said Betts. “We welcome another who will confidently follow the well laid path before him and blaze trails of his own.”
Atkinson arrives at ACC OAS after serving as the 333rd Recruiting Squadron commander at Patrick Space Force Base, Florida, where he was responsible for eight flights and over 100 military and civilian personnel located across central and southern Florida, Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands.
“I could not be more excited to join this incredible team,” said Atkinson. “We serve at a pivotal time in the Air Force where our commands focus is readiness, mission effectiveness, and accelerating decisions with digital tools.”
During the ceremony, Atkinson shared his leadership goals of continuing the success of the squadron in performing mission excellence, and supporting Airmen in their personal goals.
“The squadron is the echelon of command that Airmen most readily find their identity,” said Betts. “They are the heart of the Air Force and having a leadership team that cares about Airmen and their future is the type of leader that everyone wants.”
The OAS serves ACC units as a force multiplier by employing technical expertise to improve efficiency, readiness and domain awareness delivering results to fellow warfighters. The change of command for the OAS continues their unit’s mission, legacy and heritage for the future years to come.