The Senate has confirmed the nomination of Lt. Gen. Stephen R. Lorenz for promotion to the grade of general to take command of Air Education and Training Command at Randolph AFB, Tex. Lorenz, currently head of Air University at Maxwell AFB, Ala., will succeed Gen. William R. Looney, who is retiring after 36 years of service, including leading AETC since June 2005. The Senate also approved Maj. Gen. Allen G. Peck to become a lieutenant general to replace Lorenz in the top Air University position. Peck has been serving as vice commander of the university.
The U.S. military is maintaining a beefed-up presence in the Middle East, including fighters and air defense assets, following the U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities June 22 and subsequent retaliation by the Iranians against Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar.
