476th Fighter Group's change of command message Published Sept. 12, 2015 By Col. James A. Travis 476th Fighter Group outgoing commander Moody AFB, Georgia -- I am honored and humbled to have been the group commander of the 476th Fighter Group at such a critical time in the unit's history. We have been through a lot together. These two years have taught me a few things. Most importantly, I learned that our team has ENDURANCE & FORTITUDE. As I entered the scene in 2013, the group was already overcoming several challenges. You were ramping up for a deployment and adapting to a new inspection system. The deployment went great, as did the inspection. You made both look exceptionally easy. You combined forces in the 75.6 Fighter Squadron blended operation to set a new standard of effectiveness and efficiency with dramatically reduced assets. You did this with a style and can-do attitude I've witnessed only a few times in my life. Then came rumors of the A-10's inevitable retirement. The initial news stories and rumors were difficult for the unit to stomach. We've made peace with the potential change and got back to the business. This 476 Fighter Group team amazed me with their endurance and fortitude under these adverse circumstances. To our maintainers, you have my eternal gratitude for providing us pilots such a capable airplane. To the 442 FW, thank you for your support and leadership. The reach back we had as a GSU was excellent. The guidance and advocacy we received was legendary. I applaud our volunteers and their families for the commitment to the Nation's call. Thanks to Chief Master Sgt. Ken Koyles, who is also leaving the wing this week. You have been the epitome of what a commander needs in a Chief. God bless America.