A NEW commander has been appointed to oversee the running of a Suffolk-based fighter unit.

Called the Liberty Wing, the United States Air Force in Europe’s 48th Fighter Wing is based at RAF Lakenheath.

At a special ceremony organised at the base, Colonel John Quintas took over the role of commander from Colonel Jay Silveria.

The ceremony was officiated by Lieutenant General Frank Gorenc, 3rd Air Force commander.

“I take the responsibility of command very seriously,” Col Quintas said. “I am entrusted with our nation’s greatest asset, its young men and women.”

Col Quintas has served as the 48th Operations Group commander here for the last two years. He thanked Col Silveria, the former wing commander, for helping him prepare to take charge.