General Hostage to lead Air Combat Command

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SOUTHWEST ASIA (AFNS) --  The U.S. Senate confirmed the assignment of the newest commander of Air Combat Command.

Lt. Gen. Gilmary M. Hostage III, whom the Senate also confirmed for appointment to the grade of general, will assume command of ACC at a later date.

General Hostage currently serves as the commander of U.S. Air Forces Central Command, and as the Combined Forces Air Component commander for U.S. 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," said General Hostage, a 33-year Air Force veteran. "Kathy and I are honored to have the chance to continue to serve."

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 as the 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 the vice commander of Pacific Air Forces.

Maj. Gen. David L. Goldfein will succeed General Hostage as USAFCENT commander. General Goldfein was confirmed by the Senate for appointment to the grade of lieutenant general in the same announcement. The USAFCENT change of command ceremony is scheduled for Aug. 3.

(Courtesy of Air Forces Central Public Affairs.)