Air Force officials stand up new squadron in Iraq Published Dec. 21, 2009 By Senior Airman Jarrod R. Chavana U.S. Air Forces Central Public Affairs AL ASAD AIR BASE, Iraq (AFNS) -- Air Force officials held an assumption-of-command ceremony for the 532nd Expeditionary Operations Support Squadron Dec. 15 80 feet above the flightline standing upon a control tower platform at Al Asad Air Base. The airfield was previously operated by the Marine Corps, but due to the drawdown, Air Force officials have taken over these responsibilities. Al Asad AB is currently the only airfield in Iraq that has permission to use the commercial passenger program. This program allows a commercial airliner to fly directly from the U.S. to Iraq without having to stop in locations such as Germany. "My objectives for this command are linked to the 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing, but I only have one goal for the 532nd EOSS and that's to provide unrivaled support for our nation's warriors," said Lt. Col. Barry Dickey, the new 532nd EOSS commander. "We will accomplish this goal by maintaining the best airfield, with the best aerial port and security in the area of operation."