MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. – -- Lt. Col. Jaime L. Gutierrez assumed command of Cherry Point Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training from Lt. Col. Paul M. Melchior during a ceremony on the parade field here, June 22.
Melchior, a native of Milwaukee, Wis., will move on to Marine Corps University at Marine Corps Base Quantico where he will assume the duties of a military faculty advisor.
During the ceremony, Navy Capt. Terry M. Burt, commanding officer of Naval Education and Training Command at Naval Air Station Pensacola praised Melchior and his Marines for their hard work.
Together their efforts helped Melchior and the Cherry Point Marine detachment win the American Society for Training & Development's 2011 Excellence in Practice Award.
"During his time here, Lt. Col. Melchior set the standard for aviation maintenance training excellence and this command has excelled in every aspect," said Burt.
In his final address to his Marines, Melchior commended their dedication and enthusiasm during his time as commanding officer.
"Know that I am proud of you and everything you have accomplished in the last two years," he said.
Hailing from San Antonio, Texas, Gutierrez comes to the squadron from 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing's Aviation Logistics Department. He said he looks forward to commanding the "Owls."
Recognizing the long hours his Marines endured to prepare for the ceremony, the new commander said he is eager to go the extra mile for them.
Gutierrez's career highlights include service in Afghanistan as Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 16's (forward) executive officer, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
His personal decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, and the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with three gold stars in lieu of fourth award.