Storm Misses Lajes: US Air Force elements at Lajes Field, Azores, in the Atlantic Ocean battened down in the face of Hurricane Gordon, but the Category 1 storm with winds expected to reach 70 mph packed less than half the punch of Tropical Storm Ioke that hit Wake Island in the Pacific. In fact, the Lajes airmen say this type of wind is normal for winters in the Azores. In the end, Gordon weakened and changed course, leaving Lajes untouched.
Air Force Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich assumed command of U.S. European Command on July 1, taking over the key assignment as the U.S. and its allies contend with a resurgent Russia and a grinding war in Ukraine.
