Search
Close this search box.

Eglin Air Force Base test pilot returns to take command of 96th Test Wing

On June 20, 2022, the 96th Test Wing welcomed its new commander during a change of command ceremony. Brig. Gen. Scott Cain passed the guidon to the wing’s new leader, Brig. Gen. Jeff Geraghty. The wing also bid farewell to Cain, who leaves for Ohio and Air Force Materiel Command. The presiding officer and former 96th TW commander, […]

Brig. Gen. Jeff Geraghty speaks to the audience during the 96th Test Wing change of command ceremony June 30 at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. (U.S. Air Force photo/Samuel King Jr.)

On June 20, 2022, the 96th Test Wing welcomed its new commander during a change of command ceremony.

  • Brig. Gen. Scott Cain passed the guidon to the wing’s new leader, Brig. Gen. Jeff Geraghty. The wing also bid farewell to Cain, who leaves for Ohio and Air Force Materiel Command.

The presiding officer and former 96th TW commander, Maj. Gen. Evan Dertien, Air Force Test Center commander, spoke about the diversity and complexity of the wing’s missions before speaking about its new leader.

  • “You are ready, and I have full confidence you will continue the legacy of the 96th TW,” said Dertien. “The test wing’s motto is ‘it’s always the hour.’ Today that remains truer than ever as we continue to sharpen our nation’s sword and shield and prepare for its future endeavors.”

As a senior pilot with more than 1,750 flight hours, Geraghty is no stranger to the 96th TW’s mission. The 24-year veteran was both an F-15 Eagle and F-16 Fighting Falcon test pilot as well as a flight commander within the 40th Flight Test Squadron here.

“This is a dream job,” said Geraghty. “It’s a great honor to return to Eglin Air Force Base, 15 years after our first assignment here. I look forward to serving you in the various missions you perform. I will look to empower and learn from you, as well as work and thrive with you.”

Geraghty received his commission from the Air Force Academy in 1997. His career accomplishments include becoming a Secretary of Defense Corporate Fellow at Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX) and piloting an F-15 during Operations Northern Watch, Enduring and Iraqi Freedom.

The new general, frocked to the new rank just before the change of command ceremony, comes to Eglin after serving as the Arnold Engineering Development Complex commander.

Join the conversation...

Continue reading 👇

Community Comments

“There is no public parking…note from article, “The beach bar is accessible only to Sandpiper Cove residents and guests, along with people walking up from the beach.” Walk in from...”
Respond
“This should NOT BE ALLOWED in single family residential neighborhoods.”
Respond
“It's amazing that the State of Florida can come up with money to purchase 2483 acres for a new park. But Caladesi Island State Park, Cayo Costa State Park and...”
Respond
“What a beautiful story of past, present, and future. Lee, you have left an amazing legacy. These words from Matthew 25:21 are fitting for you, ‘Well done, good and faithful...”
Respond
“Where do you park? Should run a shuttle for HI owners”
Respond
“They have served great food items and the staff is friendly and ready to make the Sandpiper owners and guests feel welcome and appreciated! I heard the Saturday music is...”
Respond
“Interesting Risk, limiting your customer base. Wishes for success.”
Respond
“Beulah & I extend heartfelt gratitude and congratulations for your decades of highly skilled, compassionate care for our community and my family. We love you & Cathy and pray God’s...”
Respond
“I've lived in the area all my life and we use to go arrowhead hunting in the area & use to find them.”
Respond
“I've lived in the area all my life and we use to go arrowhead hunting in the area & use to find them.”
Respond

GET OUR FREE LOCAL NEWSLETTER

Get the weekday email that actually makes reading local news enjoyable again.