JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. -- On June 4, 2024, members of the 108th Wing, Armed Forces Heritage Museum co-volunteers and friends surprised retired Brig. Gen. Robert S. Dutko, Sr., former Assistant Adjutant General-Air, New Jersey Air National Guard, with the announcement that the logistics building he designed is being renamed in his honor.
Located on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., the 108th Logistics Readiness Squadron Base Supply Administrative and Warehouse Complex will soon be known as the: Brig Gen Dutko Mission Generation Complex.
The year-long effort to staff the request and to obtain endorsement was finalized May 28, 2024, in a letter of approval signed by Gen. David W. Allvin, U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff.
“It gives me great pride to know your name will be associated with the building for generations to come,” said Col. Eric A. Guttormsen, commander, 108th Wing, during a luncheon where the announcement was made public.
General Dutko spent 42-years serving in several leadership and staff roles as a logistician within the wing and NJANG. From 1986 to 1989, Brig. Gen. Dutko worked tirelessly on the project, leveraging his experience to positively impact every aspect of the building – from expanding the floor-to-ceiling clearance of the facility, to the inclusion of mezzanine levels, to the installation of automated storage equipment. He even ensured there was a breakroom for dining and squadron get-togethers and that heating was installed near the bay doors so Guardsmen would stay warm as they handled equipment during inclement weather.
“I did it for the people,” said Dutko as he teared up, overcome with emotions.
The official renaming ceremony is set for October 2024.