The enlisted force of US Air Forces in Europe inducted Gen. Tom Hobbins into the Order of the Sword on Nov. 18. SMSgt. Kelly Mazezka reports that CMSgt. Gary Coleman, USAF command chief, said Hobbins “has been a devoted advocate of the enlisted force in his command,” including spurring creation of the “first of its kind Enlisted Heritage Room honoring the blood, sweat, and tears of the enlisted airmen spanning this command’s great history.” Hobbins remarked, “We’ve been and continue to be airmen of substance. … Just knowing I could count on the excellence of [my airmen’s] work meant more to me than anything.”
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.

