U.S. Air Force Col. Mark L. Hamilton assumed command of the 1st Special Operations Wing from Col. Patrick T. Dierig during a change of command ceremony at Hurlburt Field, Florida, Oct. 6, 2025.

Presiding officer, Lt. Gen. Michael Conley, commander of Air Force Special Operations Command, praised Col. Dierig’s leadership of the 1 SOW and cast a vision for continued mission readiness and innovation under Col. Hamilton.

“Col. Hamilton’s proven leadership is just what the 1 SOW needs to ensure our Air Commandos remain ready to answer the Nation’s call,” said Lt. Gen. Conley. “I can think of no better leader to take the reins of this remarkable wing and continue its long legacy of excellence. We have a lot of work ahead and must continue to maximize Air Commando attributes of boldness, valor,

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