Second Lieutenant Kelly Nettleblad became the 10,000th student to graduate from the Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training Class at Columbus AFB, Miss. Gen. William R. Looney III, commander of Air Education and Training Command, last month pinned the silver pilot wings on Nettleblad, who will become a T-38 instructor pilot at Columbus.
Air Force Academy Leaders Ousted in Shake Up
Feb. 6, 2026
The U.S. Air Force Academy is getting a leadership refresh after a tumultuous year, with Superintendent Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind and Commandant of Cadets Brig. Gen. Gavin Marks both set to retire this year and Col. James Valpiani set to come on as the new Dean of the Faculty.

