Lt. Col. Collins Promoted to Rank of Col.

Charlotte, N.C. -- -- After assuming command yesterday of the 145 Maintenance Group, Lt. Col. Marshall C. Collins was promoted to the rank of Colonel in a ceremony at the 145 Airlift Wing, Charlotte Air National Guard base. The rank was pinned onto his uniform by his wife, Jane and their daughter Kelsey.

He succeeded Col. David Zartman in leadership of the 145 Maintenance Group, an aircraft maintenance organization, comprised of more than 300 airmen, with a budget of approximately eight million dollars.

Collins has achieved the rank after serving eight years active duty and 20 years of service in the North Carolina Air National Guard.

According to 145 Airlift Wing Commander, Brig. General Tony McMillan, Collins, with a background as a navigator, served through the unit's conversion to the H3 model of the C-130 aircraft several years ago, in addition to several assignments of increasing responsibility that took him away from the flying duties he enjoyed. The General concluded that based on his superlative track record, Collins deserves the promotion.

Brig. General David "Todd" Kelly, suggested that Collins' "outstanding" experience prepares him well to continue his career from this point, and he is looking forward to Collins' "continued success as a senior leader" in the Air Guard.

Coming from a family of Guard members, including his father and brother, Collins thanked his wife for her devotion over the last 28 years. He indicated that it wasn't easy, as she continued to support him while she battled a life threatening disease. He concluded his remarks with a promise to the men and women of the North Carolina Air National Guard, and the Group he now leads, "to listen, to learn and to assist [airmen] achieve your goals."