Scott Air Force Base, Ill. -- Maj. Gen. Kenneth T. Bibb Jr., took command of 18th Air Force during a change of command ceremony Aug. 18, 2020, at Scott Air Force Base.
Bibb, who most recently served as the director of strategic plans, programs, requirements and analyses at Headquarters Air Force Materiel Command at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, took command from Maj. Gen. Sam Barrett who is Pentagon-bound after commanding for two years.
“Today it’s my honor to hand the guidon from one mobility sage to another,” said Gen. Maryanne Miller, Air Mobility Command commander.
Miller recognized Bibb’s impressive resumé and highlighted how his extensive experience has prepared him for this job.
“This command is running hard and it takes a leader of your caliber and your skill to keep strong under today’s stressful security environment,” she said.
After symbolically passing the guidon, the in-person crowd applauded and welcomed 18th Air Force’s newest commander.
“It is true that we stand on the shoulders of those who have come before us,” Bibb said before mentioning the names of the former leaders of 18th Air Force.
Bibb noted community support as an essential aspect for the success of 18th Air Force wings.
He praised the warriors of 18th Air Force as being the people who make the command successful.
“Our future is not decided, but I’m confident we can live up to the high bar Gen. Miller, Gen. Van Ovost and other senior leaders have set for us,” said Bibb who is now responsible for ensuring readiness and sustainment of 36,000 Airmen who span 12 wings and one standalone group across the world.
He promised to give his all in command and stated that together, 18th Air Force will continue to sacrifice and serve.
The ceremony featured a small in-person audience due to COVID-19 mitigation measures. Ceremony participants also practiced social distancing and audience members wore masks to ensure the safety of all in attendance.