A range fire that started on the Melrose Bombing Range used by aircraft from Cannon AFB, N.M., destroyed some 27,000 acres, quickly spreading off the range to private land around Floyd, N.M. There has been no official word on the cause of the fire, but Cannon officials told landowners the Air Force intends to “fairly compensate” for the damages, according to the Clovis News-Journal. Area landowners say the greater loss may be in the erosion caused by the fire, and that, unlike fences, erosion is harder to put a price on.
Air Force Academy Leaders Ousted in Shake Up
Feb. 6, 2026
The U.S. Air Force Academy is getting a leadership refresh after a tumultuous year, with Superintendent Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind and Commandant of Cadets Brig. Gen. Gavin Marks both set to retire this year and Col. James Valpiani set to come on as the new Dean of the Faculty.

