Tim Ryan: “I rise today to commend Brigadier General Michael F. Gjede on his service to the United States of America. After more…”

“I rise today to commend Brigadier General Michael F. Gjede on his service to the United States of America. After more than 35 years in the Air Force, General Gjede will be retiring, and we in northeast Ohio have been very privileged to have him as the Commander of the Air Force Reserve 910th Airlift Wing at Youngstown Air Reserve Station in Vienna, Ohio. A graduate of Northeastern University in Boston, General Gjede earned his commission through the Air Force Officer Training School program in 1968. Once he had earned his wings, he served two tours in Vietnam flying B-52s and logging over 140 combat missions. General Gjede has held numerous command positions in the Air Force, and the 910th is the second flying wing that has had the opportunity to have him as their commanding officer. As our wing commander at the Youngstown Air Reserve Station, General Gjede's personal involvement, his encouragement, and intuitiveness have produced an overwhelming response, as recognized in the achievements of the wing's members. The 910th's functional areas performed flawlessly, despite a stressful and turbulent atmosphere caused by the events of September 11, 2001. His superior leadership was the driving force that kept all personnel properly focused, allowing them to consistently meet and exceed requirements.”