AFRL Propulsion Directorate Edwards site receives new commander Published June 3, 2009 By Deborah Spotts Air Force Research Laboratory Propulsion Directorate EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The Air Force Research Laboratory Propulsion Directorate Edwards site welcomed its new commander during a change of command ceremony June 1. Col. David Blanks assumed the command from Col. Alexander Giczy. Col. Michael Fabian, AFRL Propulsion Directorate deputy director, officiated the ceremony. "You were chosen as associate Director and site commander (because) we know for a certainty that you are the best choice for the job at hand," said Colonel Fabian. Colonel Blanks is a 1987 graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy. He began his career as a weapon systems engineer working safety modifications on F-4 Phantom and F-16 Fighting Falcons aircraft and expanded his experience into test analysis on F-111 Aardvark, B-1 Lancer, CV-22 Osprey and other weapon systems. "This is my third opportunity to command, and I am truly humbled to be chosen to lead Detachment 7," Colonel Blanks said. "In my short time here at the Edwards Research Site I have gained an ever growing appreciation for our mission. America's technological advantages translate to advantages for our forces -- the advantage that often distinguishes between life and death." With the every growing dependence on space, the research the detachment accomplishes on cutting edge propulsion technologies ensures access to and within space as well as assured missile propulsion, he said. "When I was chosen to come out to Edwards, I thought 'man did they mess up!' Those folks really are rocket scientists!" said Colonel Blanks. "And the collective brilliance you all demonstrate day in and day out translate into those advanced technologies so desperately needed by today's Air Force." Colonel Blanks thanked Col. Jerry Gandy, 95th Air Base Wing commander, and Col. William Thornton, 412th Test Wing commander, for their support to the AFRL and acknowledged the synergy the organizations have developed. Colonel Blanks said his two main priorities are the mission and the people of AFRL because they are the bedrock of what the Rocket Site is. "If you take care of the folks, the mission will get done," Colonel Blanks said. The previous commander, Colonel Giczy, has been reassigned to Office of the Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition.