General Lorenz takes command of AETC

Published July 2, 2008
By Tech. Sgt. Mike Hammond
Air Education and Training Command Public Affairs

RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- General Stephen R. Lorenz officially took command of Air Education and Training Command in a 10:30 a.m. ceremony here today.

As the new leader of "The First Command," General Lorenz is responsible for recruiting, training and educating all Airmen throughout their careers.

General Duncan J. McNabb, Vice Chief of Staff of the Air Force, presided at the ceremony and reflected on the importance of AETC's role in the Air Force mission.

"Our Airmen, like our fellow warriors, have been tested in the crucible of war," General McNabb said. "As part of the joint force, our Airmen have pushed our combat capability to new heights and forever changed the way we fight. And they were forged, first and foremost, by the Air Education and Training Command."

General Lorenz, in accepting command, said he was honored to share the occasion with his Air Force Family.

"For more than 60 years, our Air Force has dominated the skies -- and now, space and cyberspace -- and contributed to the joint fight. Simply: no one does it better," General Lorenz said. "And when it comes to recruiting, training and educating American Airmen, Air Education and Training Command leads the way.

"From our recruiters in the field to our crew chiefs on the flightline, to the basic military training instructor molding today's Airmen, to the medics saving lives at Balad, or the instructor pilot ensuring tomorrow's air dominance -- over 90,000 AETC family members touch the lives of almost 350,000 Airmen every year."

General Lorenz comes to AETC after leading Air University at Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala., since October, 2005.

He replaces Gen. William R. Looney III, who retired today after more than 36 years of service.