Col. Leah Lauderback takes reins at NASIC

Col. Leah G. Lauderback assumed command of the National Air and Space Intelligence Center on May 28 in front of an audience of more than 700 during a time-honored change of command ceremony at the National Museum of the United States Air Force in Ohio.

Maj. Gen. John Shanahan, commander of the Air Force Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Agency, officiated; passing the NASIC flag from departing commander, Col. Aaron Prupas.

“Col. Prupas is headed to the Pentagon,” said Shanahan, speaking highly of Prupas’ time at NASIC. “He has set the bar very high indeed…when considering his replacement only one officer was singularly qualified and that was Leah Lauderback.”

Prupas lauded NASIC’s airmen, saying he couldn’t be more proud to have been their commander, and praised Lauderback as their new leader, says an Air Force article on its Web site.

“I leave you in great hands and have no doubt that Leah will be an incredible leader,” said Prupas. “You will make a great team…blue skies and God speed.”

Lauderback most recently served as commander of the 67th Cyberspace Operations Group at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas. She commended Prupas, calling him a phenomenal leader and friend.

“I am honored and privileged to take command after you,” said Lauderback. “I am humbled to command NASIC and look forward to serving with you all.”

Shanahan expressed high hopes for the future of NASIC under Lauderback’s leadership. “Although your commander has changed, the mission will remain unabated,” said Shanahan. “You will continue to do what you do better than anyone in the world. You are in very good hands.”