Fargo, N.D. -- The N.D. Air National Guard will conduct a promotion ceremony at the 119th Wing honoring Kent R. Olson, Fargo, for his recent promotion to the rank of Colonel at 2:30 p.m. on Friday.
Olson has served as the Vice Commander of the 119th Wing since October 2008.
Olson began his military career when he enlisted in the North Dakota Air National Guard in 1981 serving as an aircraft munitions systems specialist. After being selected for training as an F-4 weapons system officer, Olson earned his officer commission from the Air National Guard Academy of Military Science (AMS).
Prior to his current position, Olson held several positions at the 119th Wing including 119th Operations Support Squadron Commander, the 119th Fighter Wing Chief of Safety, 178th Fighter Squadron Operations Officer, Chief of Standards and Evaluations, Chief of Training, Chief of Wing Plans, and the 178th Fighter Squadron Life Support Officer.
Olson is an instructor pilot and functional check flight pilot in the C-21 Lear Jet. He is a command pilot with more than 3,100 hours, primarily in fighter aircraft.
Major awards and decorations include: Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Combat Readiness Medal, Air Reserve Forces Meritorious Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, Air Force Longevity Service Ribbon, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship and the Air Force Training Ribbon.
Media is invited to attend the promotion ceremony. Please contact Capt. Penny Ripperger, 119th Wing Public Affairs Officer, at 701-451-2194 to arrange a media escort on base.
High resolution photo available upon request.
What: Promotion Ceremony for Col. Kent R. Olson
When: Friday, March 13, 2009
Where: 119th Wing, North Dakota Air National Guard
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