Air Force Colonel Removed From Post At Tinker AFB After Safety Investigation

A colonel has been removed from his post at Tinker Air Force Base.  A newspaper covering the Air Force said he had relaxed safety protocols.

Base officials said Colonel Gary Donovan was removed from his post Monday. There are allegations that he put airmen’s safety at risk.

According to the Air Force Times, someone higher up the chain of command removed Donovan following an investigation that found he skirted safety protocols and conducted an unhealthy workplace culture.

The report also said this happened four months after Donovan tried to send planes on a training exercise that airmen felt was unsafe.

The article said the troops pushed back, complaining about their commanding officer on social media. The Air Force then began multiple safety probes as part of its investigation.

Those with the Air Force Times added there was a summary, claiming Donovan failed to "promote a culture of safety by failing to adhere to operational risk management standards."

Maj. Gen. Michael Koscheski, who oversees Donovan's now former command, issued a statement that said, in part, “We need the men and women of the 552nd Operations Group to foster a culture of dignity and respect. This means living by Core Values every day and empowering subordinate leaders to promote these values through teaching, coaching and mentorship....”

Officials said Col. Wayne Frost will now take command of the 552nd Operations Group. The Air Force said Donovan was moved to do other responsibilities.  

Officials with the base said they are not releasing any additional information on the matter at this time.