Handy Takes Command in Alaska

Lt. Gen. Russell Handy took command of 11th Air Force during a ceremony last week at JB Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska. In his new role, he also leads US Pacific Command’s Alaskan Command and the Alaskan NORAD Region. Handy received his third star prior to the Aug. 9 change of command. “General Handy is eminently qualified to wear the many hats of this diverse and vital command,” said Army Gen. Charles Jacoby, NORAD commander, who presided over the ceremony. Handy replaced Lt. Gen. Stephen Hoog, who held these posts since November 2011 and is moving on to his new assignment as the Air Force’s next assistant vice chief of staff. The Senate approved Hoog for this post in June. “It’s humbling to stand up here with all you heroes and with all the men and women of this diverse command,” Handy told the assembled airmen at the ceremony. “To be given the opportunity to command at all is a privilege, and an incredible honor,” he said. Handy was previously Pacific Air Forces’ director of operations, plans, requirements, and programs. (Elmendorf report by SSgt. Wes Wright)