U.S. Air Forces Central carries out change of command

SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. — A change of command ceremony was held on August 4 at Shaw Air Force Base, where leadership of U.S. Air Forces Central (AFCENT) transitioned from Lt. Gen. Derek France to Lt. Gen. Daniel Lasica.

Gen. Adrian Spain, commander of Air Combat Command, presided over the event and acknowledged the significant contributions of AFCENT, particularly under France’s leadership. “Since 1979 when this command took the mantle of the rapid deployment joint task force, you have defined combat excellence. This command has stood as our nation’s sentry,” Spain remarked, emphasizing the enduring legacy of air power generation.

Representing U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), Lt. Gen. Patrick Frank, the deputy commander, praised France’s leadership over the past two years, highlighting his role as a formidable warfighter and an invaluable component of the CENTCOM team. “His leadership and dedication will be remembered for years to come,” Frank stated.

France took command of AFCENT on April 18, 2024, and is now set to retire. In his farewell address, he expressed gratitude to the Airmen, leaders, and families for their unwavering support. “I am humbled today to have had the opportunity to lead AFCENT during a historic time on the world’s stage,” he said, conveying pride in his service alongside the dedicated team.

Lasica comes to AFCENT from his role as the director of operations at U.S. European Command headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany. In his closing remarks, he acknowledged the team’s past and future challenges, affirming, “This team has been led by warriors and leaders that epitomize our fighting spirit. We will continue our legacy of valor and aggressively focus on defend, defeat, develop and win.”

As the air component of CENTCOM, AFCENT remains pivotal in overseeing air operations, partnerships, and readiness in the Middle East and Central Asia.