AFCENT Gets New Commander as Lt. Gen. Daniel Lasica Takes Charge
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, South Carolina: U.S. Air Forces Central (AFCENT) officially welcomed a new commander on Monday as Lt. Gen. Daniel Lasica assumed leadership from Lt. Gen. Derek France during a change of command ceremony at Shaw Air Force Base.
The ceremony was presided over by Gen. Adrian Spain, commander of U.S. Air Force Air Combat Command, who praised AFCENT's long-standing record of operational excellence and its critical role in protecting U.S. interests.
"Since 1979, this command has defined combat excellence and has stood as our nation's sentry," Spain said. "Today, that legacy of generating airpower continues."
Representing U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), Deputy Commander Lt. Gen. Patrick Frank commended France for his leadership over the past two years, describing him as a dedicated warfighter whose contributions significantly strengthened the CENTCOM team and its partnerships with joint and coalition forces.
France, who assumed command of AFCENT on April 18, 2024, is scheduled to retire from military service. In his farewell remarks, he thanked Airmen, commanders, civilian personnel and their families for their commitment throughout his tenure.
"I am humbled to have led AFCENT during such a historic period," France said. "I am proud to stand alongside all of you as we wrote history together."
Lasica takes over after serving as Director of Operations at U.S. European Command (EUCOM) headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany.
Addressing personnel during the ceremony, Lasica reaffirmed AFCENT's commitment to its mission across the region.
"This team has been led by warriors and leaders who embody our fighting spirit," he said. "We will continue our legacy of valor while focusing on defending, defeating, developing and winning."
As the air component of U.S. Central Command, AFCENT oversees U.S. air operations, regional partnerships and force readiness across the Middle East and Central Asia.
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