During its 30th anniversary celebration Sept. 17, Air Force Space Command added two new members to its Space and Missile Pioneers Hall of Fame: Dr. Hans Mark, former Secretary of the Air Force who advocated for establishment of a major command for space operations, and posthumously to retired Col. John Stapp, who was a researcher and human guinea pig in the biodynamics of human spaceflight. Gen. William Shelton, AFSPC commander, said of the new inductees, “We celebrate the history that’s here and the legacy created by these great men; we stand on your shoulders.” (AFSPC report/Lt. Col. Katerine Pallozzi)
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.

