General Hostage to lead Air Combat Command Published May 31, 2011 Air Forces Central Public Affairs SOUTHWEST ASIA -- The United States Senate has confirmed Lt. Gen. Gilmary M. Hostage III for appointment to the grade of general with assignment as the commander of Air Combat Command. The 33-year Air Force veteran will assume command at a later date. General Hostage currently serves as Commander, United States Air Forces Central Command, and Combined Forces Air Component Commander for United States Central Command. In his current position, he is responsible for developing contingency plans and conducting air operations in a 20-nation area of responsibility covering Central and Southwest Asia. "As I look back on nearly two years here, I'm grateful for the efforts of this joint and combined team providing airpower to supported commanders. Kathy and I are honored to have the chance to continue to serve," said General Hostage. The general received his commission as a distinguished graduate of the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps program at Duke University in 1977. He has served as Air Education and Training Command's Director of Air, Space and Information Operations as well as their Director for Plans and Programs, and Assistant Director of Operations for Air Combat Command. He has commanded a fighter squadron, operations group and three wings. Prior to assuming his current position, he was Vice Commander, Pacific Air Forces. General Hostage will be succeeded as USAFCENT commander by Maj. Gen. David L. Goldfein, who was confirmed by the Senate for appointment to the grade of lieutenant general in the same announcement. The change of command ceremony is planned for Aug. 3.