F. E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, Wyo. -- Maj. Gen. Michael J. Lutton took command of 20th Air Force from Maj. Gen. Ferdinand “Fred” B. Stoss at a change of command ceremony at F. E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyoming, July 8, 2020.
Lt. Gen. Anthony Cotton, deputy commander of Air Force Global Strike Command, presided over the ceremony, in front of a small crowd of wing commanders and command chiefs, and close family and friends. Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon and Cheyenne Mayor Marian Orr were also in attendance.
"We end this chapter in 20th Air Force history, with the departure of one great leader and the arrival of another" said Cotton. "I have strong confidence that Mike will take the relay from Fred and keep us on the right track.”
After accepting the guidon, Gen. Lutton expressed his gratitude and excitement to serve with the Airmen of 20th Air Force.
"I’m deeply humbled by Gen. Ray’s confidence in me to lead 20th Air Force,” said Lutton. "It’s truly an honor to be in Air Force Global Strike Command, 20th Air Force and to lead the men and women who make the mission happen every day.”
Before relinquishing command, Stoss thanked the Airmen in 20th Air Force for their service in support of the ICBM mission.
"It has been a great pleasure to serve as the commander of this incredible organization,” said Stoss. "Our amazing Sentinel Warriors have continued to innovate and improve our mission.”
Stoss is headed to his next assignment as Director, Plans and Policy, United States Strategic Command, Offutt AFB, Nebraska