Base

Exciting Changes and Unusual Visitors: A Look at Recent Updates in Air Force Bases

New commanders, flight milestones, and unexpected guests - the latest buzz from Air Force bases!

The Air Force bases have been buzzing with activity recently, from welcoming new commanders to reaching flight milestones and even encountering unexpected visitors. At the Holloman Air Force Base, the 49th Wing held a change of command ceremony welcoming Col. John Ethridge as the new commander. Simultaneously, the 95th Fighter Squadron celebrated reaching 1000 flight hours in the F-35A Lightning II, showcasing their dedication to the mission.

Not to be outdone, the 509th Bomb Wing at Whiteman Air Force Base witnessed a unique event with the deactivation of the 509th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron and the activation of the 393rd Bomber Generation Squadron in a poignant ceremony. Meanwhile, at Vandenberg Space Force Base, Colonel Mark Shoemaker announced plans to increase the frequency of rocket launches, promising exciting developments in space missions.

In a quirky turn of events, an enormous alligator was discovered on the runway of MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa, leading to its relocation to a gator farm. This unusual visitor added a touch of wild excitement to the otherwise routine operations at the base.

As we look ahead to the future, the appointment of Col. John Ethridge as the new commander of the 49th Wing brings fresh leadership to Holloman Air Force Base, setting the tone for upcoming initiatives. Additionally, the 95th Fighter Squadron's accomplishment of reaching 1000 flight hours demonstrates their operational excellence and commitment to excellence in aerial missions.