PORTLAND, Ore. -- Colonel Todd A. Hofford assumed command of the 142nd Wing during a change of command ceremony held here, Dec. 5, 2021.
Hofford assumed command from Colonel David N. Unruh, who will be taking a new position in A3 operations at Joint Force Headquarters, while serving as a drill status guardsman.
Presiding officer, Brigadier General Donna Prigmore, Oregon Air National Guard Commander, was present to officiate the ceremony. Prigmore praised outgoing commander Unruh’s commitment amidst difficult circumstances.
"Your wing commander met every challenge he faced, with a steady and calm approach," said Prigmore "whenever he spoke of successes within the wing, he relentlessly gave all the credit to you.”
As Prigmore gave her remarks during the ceremony, she also mentioned her experience of working with Hofford, and praised his enthusiasm, his dedication to the Guard and to the country.
“Both Colonel Unruh and Colonel Todd Hofford have been exceptional Air Force Officers,” said Prigmore, “...they are the epitome of professionalism and it’s been my honor to serve alongside both of you.”
As he relinquished command, Unruh took a moment to thank the airmen he led.
“When I look at you in the eyes, I see a greatly virtuous people and I’m so glad to serve with you” said Unruh.
When the incoming commander came to the podium, he addressed the men and women of the 142nd Wing.
“I am your servant. My role is to trust and care for all that you do,” said Hofford. “For every challenge, there are opportunities and together we will adjust to the major challenges facing this wing.”
Col. Hofford enlisted in the Air National Guard in 1993 as a munitions systems specialist with the 173rd Fighter Wing where he served as a staff sergeant. He attended Southern Oregon University graduating with honors in two degrees. He received his officer commission from the Academy of Military Science in 1998 earning the Top Honor Graduate Award. He attended undergraduate pilot training in 1999, graduating first in the primary phase. In 2000, he attended the F-15C Basic Course.
He transferred to the 142nd Fighter Wing where he flew as a Combat-Ready Instructor/Evaluator and alert pilot. While assigned to the 142nd Fighter Wing, he deployed seven times and served as the Multi-Stage Improvement Program Security Manager, Chief of Scheduling, Chief of Training, Chief of Standardization and Evaluation and as Flight Commander.
Hofford served from 2011-2012 as a qualified Fighter Officer for AFNORTH/1st Air Force, Western Air Defense Sector, McChord AFB, Tacoma, Washington. As the chief evaluator for the 142nd Operations Group, Col. Hofford led the group through an “Outstanding” rated inspection. He then spent two years working as the Deputy Director of Staff, Joint Force Headquarters, Oregon. He next led the 142nd Maintenance Squadron and Group; where he also deployed as an aviator/commander in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve in Europe. He then served a two year tour as the Vice Wing Commander prior to his role as the Director of Staff-Air Component. Col. Hofford is an active member of the Washington County community and serves as a volunteer for his local church.
“It is an honor and a privilege to serve with you,” said Hofford.