Former Air University student, McConnell AFB vice commander dies

Col. Michael V. Krueger, 22nd Air Refueling Wing vice commander, passed away Tuesday.

He was found dead in his home at McConnell Air Force Base in Kansas, of unknown causes, and had served the wing since May 2008.

Krueger came to Maxwell AFB multiple times during his career. First at the Squadron Officer School in 1992 and again in 1996 for the Joint Doctrine Air Campaign Course. He also completed Air Command and Staff College and Air War College courses by correspondence.

"Mike epitomized the wingman concept as he was always by my side as we ran the 22nd Air Refueling Wing together--he was my confidant, mentor, and friend," Col. James C. Vechery, 22nd Air Refueling Wing commander, said in a release.

"He was an outstanding officer, but it goes deeper than that, it's the leadership qualities that he portrayed," said Chief Master Sgt. James Morman, 22nd Air Refueling Wing interim command chief. "He met every challenge with a smile. No matter how bad or good it was, he had that comforting grin. He never put himself before anyone else."

As the vice commander, Krueger stood with Colonel Vechery in leading the world's largest KC-135 base as Team McConnell provided all-weather, in-flight, aerial refueling for the U.S. and allied military aircraft, as well as Global Reach airlift for the rapid and precise projection of troops, equipment and supplies worldwide.

Krueger previously served as Chief of the Programs Division at Headquarters Air Mobility Command, Scott Air Force Base, Ill., where he planned and programmed the command's forces to include 55,000 personnel and acquisitions of over 700 aircraft on 12 bases.

In lieu of flowers, the family has established the Michael Victor Krueger Memorial Fund for the benefit of his children's education. Contributions can be made at any Bank of America location. Donations can be made after March 6.