Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, NJ -- A ceremony was held at the 108th Wing on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., September 14, 2024, to dedicate the Mission Generation Complex in honor of Brigadier General (Ret.) Robert S. Dutko Sr. The dedication ceremony commemorated Dutko's distinguished service and enduring legacy within the 108th Wing and the New Jersey Air National Guard.
The event was attended by state and community leaders, veterans, military retirees, family members, and Airmen from the 108th Wing, all of whom gathered to celebrate the official renaming of building 3369. The newly dedicated facility will continue to serve as the central hub for the 108th Logistics and Readiness Squadron.
"We are here to witness a rare event for an exceptional human being," said Col. Lola D. Washington, commander of the 108th Mission Support Group, during her keynote address. "You are responsible for the design of building 3369 as well as the oversight of its construction where you once served as the commander. Therefore, it’s only fitting that your name be memorialized on this building."
Construction of building 3369 was completed in 1989 as part of a comprehensive infrastructure project to upgrade the 108th Wings logistics capabilities as it transitioned from F-4E Phantom IIs to KC-135E Stratotanker Aircraft. Dutko's commitment to creating a lasting legacy for his fellow Airmen was unwavering. "I believe the people were happy with what I gave them," said Dutko. " It was all for them. It was designed for the future, and I’m so pleased that 30 something years later it is still a great functional area with changes to it all for the better."
The dedication ceremony included several notable highlights:
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Ceremonial Unveiling: The ceremony featured the unveiling of a commemorative plaque and building sign bearing Brigadier General Dutko's name. The plaque, prominently displayed at the building’s entrance, outlines his 42 years of service to the New Jersey Air National Guard.
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Family Tribute: Family members of General Dutko were present to witness the dedication and received a framed collage depicting the construction of the plaque and building signage. A memorial table was also set up to honor his late wife, Barbara Ann Dutko, who was remembered for her unconditional support throughout his military career.
The day concluded with a tour and reception in the conference room of Building 3369, where attendees shared stories, memories, and fellowship.
Brig. General Dutko, a respected figure in the New Jersey Air National Guard, is known not only for his military accomplishments but also for his deep commitment to his fellow service members and the community. His current civic affiliations include the National Guard Association of the United States and of New Jersey, the Patriotic Committee of Ewing Township, and the New Jersey Air National Guard Historical Society, among many others. "General Dutko is someone all our Airmen can and do look up to," said Col. Eric Guttorsome, 108th Wing commander. "Someone who has repeatedly stepped up when the moment needed a leader."
Building 3369 now stands not just as a facility for the deployment and distribution of materials and vehicle management but as a tribute to the values that General Dutko embodies— duty, service, and dedication to the mission and the people who carry it out.