WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- Col. Sean P. Larkin took command of the National Air and Space Intelligence Center during a change of command ceremony, May 26 making him the newest leader of the Air Force’s primary source for foreign air and space intelligence.
Larkin succeeds Col Leah G. Lauderback, who had led the service center since June 2014.
Lt. Gen. Robert P. Otto, the Air Force’s Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance, presided over the ceremony where he addressed an audience of more than 500 people. The general praised Lauderback’s accomplishments before relinquishing the center’s colors to Larkin, in recognition of his new role.
“Time and time again the honorable James R. Clapper, director of national intelligence, has lauded NASIC for closing key intelligence gaps and every time he has looked to Colonel Lauderback for answers, she has always delivered,” Otto said.
During the ceremony, Lauderback wished her “NASIC family" farewell and welcomed back Larkin who is beginning his third tour here.
“This has been such a privilege and honor to work with the most dedicated Americans I’ve ever encountered and I want to say thank you to General Otto for the opportunity,” Lauderback said. “Col. Larkin, welcome back to the family. Without a doubt, I know that the Center is in great hands with you at the helm.”
Lauderback will become the Principal Military Assistant to the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Washington, D.C.
Also during the ceremony, Otto highlighted Larkin's achievements and expressed confidence in the colonel saying he is ready for the task of commanding the Center.
”NASIC will be well served by a commander who understands the people in the community, and has the talent and the experience for a strategic drive,” Otto said. “I am absolutely confident he’s going to use his familiarity of the mission, insights from the Air Staff and policy experience to develop a strong and enduring NASIC strategy to support the Department of Defense's Third Offset Strategy .”
Larkin comes to Wright-Patterson AFB from his assignment as a Military Fellow for the Council on Foreign Relations. Closing out the ceremony, the Colonel acknowledged the Center's endeavors and shared his excitement on returning.
“It’s great to be home,” he said.