Deputy Wing Commander's Final Flight

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Aluin Morales
  • 514th Air Mobility Wing
JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. --  Col. Erik Brine experienced a momentous occasion with his family, and members of the Freedom Wing, as he completed his fini-flight, culminating his tenure as Deputy Wing Commander of the 514th Air Mobility Wing, Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, Saturday March 1, 2025.

Brine has dedicated most of his life to military service. As a senior pilot with more than 2,500 flying hours, including more than 200 combat hours over Iraq and Afghanistan, and missions over 56 countries, he is a highly respected leader and mentor to the next generation of pilots. Embarking on his final flight with the Freedom Wing made him reflect on the significance of this moment.

“I believe I’m the only person to ever be the vice wing commander, wing commander and deputy wing commander of the same air wing, and I couldn’t have asked for a better wing to be a part of the leadership team for these last four years than the 514th,” Brine said. “We have been through a lot together in those four years, from COVID to the Afghanistan withdrawal, to Operation Allies Welcome, to support of foreign partners in Ukraine and Israel. We have experienced the painful loss of friends like Chief Aimable and the unanticipated loss of units in the disassociation, but I continue to be impressed by the resilience and professionalism of this team. We take care of each other and thanks to that, taking care of the mission is easy.”

Returning from a local training flight, Brine’s final flight was celebrated by his family and the dedicated men and women of the Freedom Wing who have worked alongside him ensuring the operational excellence the wing is known for. The event carried a deep sense of comradeship and appreciation for his dedication and steadfast leadership to our airmen and their families. The 514th AMW Command Chief, Chief Master Sgt. Leonard Werner, who worked closely with Brine, reflected on this milestone.

“I have had the honor of knowing Col. Brine for a few years and more importantly, served as his command chief during his wing commander tenure. One of the most difficult challenges I had to deal with during that time, was the loss of my long-time friend, Chief Corinne Aimable” Werner said. “As difficult as that time was, Col. Brine was not only a wingman by my side, but a friend. Col. Brine sensed when I was struggling and was always right there to lend his support. He is a great leader and cares immensely about the Airmen and civilians he serves with. He will be greatly missed here at the Freedom Wing.”

Members of 514th AMW were present as Brine’s family sprayed him with water and champagne as he disembarked from the C-17 aircraft. The 514th AMW Wing Commander, Col. Christopher Holland, expressed his deep gratitude.

“Col. Brine is an exceptional leader; the men and women of the Freedom Wing have benefited enormously from his expertise, breadth of knowledge, and consummate professionalism,” Holland said. “At his core, though, is a caring, compassionate approach and that makes him a superb leader of airmen.”

Brine’s professionalism and dedication as a pilot are a testament and exemplary of the high caliber individuals who have taken the mantel of Citizen Airmen to serve our nation. His expertise and leadership are leaving an indelible impact on the Air Force, the 514th AMW and all those who have had the privilege of serving with him. There is no doubt that his legacy will inspire future generations of pilots to be better wingmen and better leaders and foster a devotion to duty that is only matched by the highest of standards.

The tradition gained prominence during the Vietnam era, as the fini-flight was originally a means for aircrews to celebrate the completion of 100 missions. Through the course of time, this celebration has evolved into a flight that marks a pilot’s departure from a flying squadron, last flight on a particular aircraft or a pilot’s last flight of his career as an aviator. It is an emotional moment for the pilot, their crew and unit, where all pause to reflect and celebrate the pilot’s achievements and contributions.

As the celebration of his fini-flight came to an end, Brine expressed his gratitude for the tremendous support he has received over the years.

“I’ve been incredibly lucky throughout my career to be a part of great organizations and serve with so many inspirational people. I’m tremendously thankful that I’ve had the opportunity to fly here with the Ram and have what is likely the last flight in my Reserve career in the mighty C-17 with the folks from the 732nd and 514th OSS,” Brine said. No one does it better. I’m excited for the next chapter of my Air Force Reserve career, but it is with a heavy heart that I move on from this assignment and the people here that I have been so proud to serve with.”

As Brine transitions to his new assignment at AFCENT A5 at Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, the Freedom Wing wishes him and his family blue skies and tailwinds.