AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy -- Brig. Gen. Tad D. Clark assumed command of the 31st Fighter Wing from Brig. Gen. Jason E. Bailey during a change of command ceremony officiated by Maj. Gen. Derek C. France, 3rd Air Force commander at Aviano Air Base, July 18.
The 31st FW diverse mission sets are executed by Airmen who fly, maintain and support two F-16CM Fighting Falcon fighter squadrons, two combat search and rescue squadrons with pararescue Airmen and HH-60 Pave Hawks, U.S. Air Forces Europe’s only air control squadron, agile combat support squadrons, maintenance squadrons, medical squadrons and numerous wing staff agencies.
"Thank you so much for all that was poured into making today such a special and memorable event," said Clark. "Not just for welcoming me and my family, but making sure we pay tribute and honor to a phenomenal leader and a personal friend, Brig Gen Bailey."
Prior to taking command of the 31st FW, Clark was the Director of Electromagnetic Spectrum Superiority (EMS) as U.S. Air Force Headquarters, Arlington, Virginia. He was responsible for the Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance and Cyber Effects Operations for policy formulation, planning, oversight and leadership of the Air Force EMS enterprise.
France officiated the ceremony by transferring command from Bailey to Clark. This was symbolized by the passing of the ceremonial Wing guidon from the outgoing commander to the incoming commander. During the ceremony, France spoke to attendees about his experience with Bailey and the 31st FW.
“These two years have commanded a lot of sacrifice out of the 31st Fighter Wing,” said France. “Through Covid, deployments, [operations] tempo, you’ve supported [Bailey] with unwavering support.”
France also commented on his experiences with Clark.
“Wyverns, you are getting a visionary leader who is an experienced, seasoned commander,” he said.
After assuming command, Clark emphasized the importance of transforming partnerships into true, long-lasting friendships during his opening remarks.
“This is so important, especially during these unprecedented times,” said Clark. “It is essential that we engage, train and operate as a cohesive NATO team.”
While relinquishing command, Bailey spoke about his experiences with the 31st FW and welcomed Clark.
“It has been humbling to face the challenges of the past two years with you,” said Bailey. “You have been an all-star team when the world needed all-stars.”