New commander takes lead in air campaign

Published July 16, 2013
By by Airman 1st Class Jonathan Bass
20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- U.S. Air Forces Central Command now has a new leader.

In a change of command ceremony here July 11, Lt. Gen. John W. Hesterman III took command of USAFCENT from Lt. Gen. David Goldfein.

U.S. Army General Lloyd J. Austin III, the Commander of U.S. Central Command presided over the ceremony.

"The power of the United States military is in our joint capability, our ground and naval forces combined with a superior air component," Austin said. "It is the focus of AFCENT to develop and strengthen the relationship of our partner nations. These are the cornerstones of increased cooperation within the [United States Central Command] area of responsibility."

Goldfein recognized the joint relationship of USCENTCOM; calling the Army and Navy component commanders his "component brothers," he thanked them and said, "We have accomplished great things together."

Austin thanked Goldfein for his leadership of USAFCENT and its ability to project decisive air and space power for USCENTCOM and America.

"He (Goldfein) has done what is right for the unit, what is right for the United States Air Force, for the Airmen and for their families. He is a team player, a team builder, and a truly exceptional leader," Austin said.

Hesterman takes over an organization that works closely with its counterparts in Southwest Asia to ensure the stability of the region. Whether serving in a combat or humanitarian role, USAFCENT is an integral part of the nation's airpower in joint and combined military and humanitarian operations.

"I am certain that he is the right person to lead this great organization through this next challenging period of transformation and transition," Austin said, speaking about Hesterman.

"I can't think of a better guy, I can't thank you enough for what you've done with these folks, and for making this so easy for me," Hesterman said, while speaking to Goldfein.

Hesterman thanked many people for his success, including Chief Master Sergeant Shelina Frey, USAFCENT Command Chief Master Sergeant, who he has been assigned with in the past.

"I am delighted to join my command chief, Shelina Frey yet again," he said. "Chief is the best we have."

Hesterman then directed his comments to the Airmen of USAFCENT.

"You've done exceptionally good work and continue to do exceptionally good work," he said, "I'm proud of you and proud to join you."

Hesterman is a command pilot with more than 2,200 flying hours and served as an instructor pilot in multiple airframes, including the F-16 Fighting Falcon. He flew during the first night of Operation Desert Storm and was the expeditionary squadron commander for multiple operations. Recently, he has served as the USAFCENT Deputy Combined Forces Air Component Commander. Hesterman has served in Europe, Asia, the Middle East and the United States, while holding assignments on the Air Staff and Joint Staff.

Goldfein will move to Washington, D.C., where he will serve as Director of the Joint Staff.