A change of command is a familiar, scripted event across the military, but for all its common practices and repetitive actions, it’s also a ceremony that never fails to bring up strong emotions of pride. This pride was on full display at MCAS Beaufort on the 14th when Col. Mark Bortnem officially received command from the outgoing installation commander, Col Karl Arbogast.
Col Bortnem expressed his excitement and humility in taking over his new assignment, saying: “I’m humbled for the opportunity to lead and I’m grateful to return to the lowcountry. Although this is not where I was born, in many ways it’s like being home. I’m determined to integrate myself into Team Beaufort and keep this place remaining as the best air station in the Marine Corps, working around the best folks, and with the best Marines,”
Col Arbogast, meanwhile, thanked a variety of individuals and it was clear that his command time at MCAS Beaufort had been meaningful to him. “We’ve been here for three years,” he said. “When we stand up and think about our time in Team Beaufort, we’re going to cherish this, every moment. We will always remain faithful to this awesome place, and all the wonderful people that we have met here.”
Both outgoing and incoming leaders have a storied history of service to the Marine Corps. Colonel Bortnem first began his career in the Corps as an enlisted Supply Specialist in 1991. After being selected for the Marine Enlisted Commissioning Education Program, he attended The Ohio State University and then flight school in Pensacola, FL upon commissioning as a Second Lieutenant. After completing training, Col Bortnem served in a variety of high-profile appointments as a Marine Aviator including multiple deployments to Iraq, and as an exchange officer with the Royal Canadian Air Force where he became the first US officer to command a Canadian Air Force Squadron. Col. Bortnem was also the Commanding Officer of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 232 in Miramar, CA and most recently served as the Director of the Commandant of the Marine Corps Safety Division before arriving at MCAS Beaufort.
The outgoing Col Arbogast has many accomplishments to reflect on from his three-year command of MCAS Beaufort. His leadership ensured that the installation thrived and grew in importance in the realm of Marine Corps aviation, despite significant challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. His next assignment is to the Training and Education Command just a few states away at MCB Quantico in Virginia.
We at the Beaufort MEC applaud the excellent leadership of Col Arbogast and welcome the newest rising star of the Marine Corps, Col Bortnem. The Lowcountry thanks both of these fine officers for their service and we are eager to see the next proud chapter of MCAS Beaufort.
