Patriot Wing command chief steps up to 4th Air Force Published Nov. 27, 2013 By TSgt. Stephen Winn 439th Airlift Wing Public Affairs WESTOVER AIR RESERVE BASE, Mass. -- Westover's top-ranking enlisted Airman recently stepped up to the same leadership position at the numbered air force that oversees the Patriot Wing. CMSgt. Michael Thorpe was the interim command chief for headquarters 4th Air Force located at March Air Reserve Base, Calif., from September through late October. "This has allowed me a unique perspective of how the wings throughout 4th AF operate and provide the total force association that's needed to ensure our Citizen Airmen are prepared for the next world or national event when assimilating with our Active Duty and Air Guard counterparts," CMSgt. Thorpe said. "I was also fortunate to have the opportunity to work closely and collaborate with the 4thAF command chiefs to provide our people the necessary tools that are needed to succeed." CMSgt. Thorpe's temporary position came at a time many of those in uniform will remember for years to come. "It has been a tumultuous month due to the government shutdown," he said. "But the one attribute all our wings displayed throughout the 4th AF was the resiliency needed to ensure our missions continued unimpeded. It is a testament to our people and the level of dedication they have to their individual craft, and devotion they have to this Nation." CMSgt. Thorpe has been command chief of the Patriot Wing since April 2011. CMSgt. Brian Wong is the new 4th AF command chief.