With Santa Rosa County and Baldwin County Commissioners, state representatives, distinguished military personnel, friends, and family in attendance, Captain Matthew Coughlin was relieved of his three-year command of Naval Air Station Whiting by Captain Todd Bahlau, a Jackson, Michigan native. During his speech before the assembly, Coughlin said, “Most of you are aware that today’s ceremony also doubles as my retirement.”
Welcoming Bahlau to not only his new command, but Santa Rosa County, Coughlin said, “You’re gonna love this place. Whether you are judging the rubber ducky contest on the Blackwater River, or judging the most prestigious floats at the Christmas parade, or working more on professional matters, this will become your new home. You will be welcomed beyond your wildest imagination. I was proud to call this home and I will continue to call it my home.”
With humility and pride, not in his own accomplishments but those around him, Coughlin thanked his subordinates, fellow officers, and family for their support and dedication. Coughlin said, “To both military and civilian warriors that make up NAS Whiting Field, since day one, I have tried to instill a culture of pride in our noble and unique mission, that is to produce the best aviation warfighters in the world. This includes the best aviation ordinancemen anywhere. When I say this, a cynic may simply view this mission as nothing more than a factory. I never bought into that mindset, nor will I ever. No matter what your professional role is in this noble mission you contributed to the ability of our Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard to wreak absolute havoc on the enemies of this great nation.”
While Coughlin focused on the accomplishments of those around him, his own include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, two Navy Meritorious Service Medals, three Navy/Marine Corps Commendation Medals, two Navy/Marine Corps Achievement Medals, as well as various unit and other service medals.
After officially relieving Coughlin of command, Bahlau said, “Matt, you have done a fabulous job as the CO over the last three years. Thank you for turning over a base that is at the top of its game. You have made my job difficult as I always go into a new position with a goal of making sure I leave it better than I got it, so I have my work cut out for me. It is not going to be easy, but I accept the challenge. Congratulations on your retirement and your 27 years of honorable service to our great nation.”
This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: Bahlau takes command of NASWF as Coughlin retires