Fighter squadron gains new commander for integrated mission

  • Published
  • By Capt. Jessica Martin
  • 926th Group public affairs
NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. --  The U.S. Air Force Reserve's 706th Fighter Squadron, an associate unit to the United States Air Force Warfare Center, held a change of command here June 24.
 
Lt. Col. Craig Jones relinquished command to Lt. Col. Dean Caldwell during a ceremony at the 64th Aggressors Squadron.

"As an F-16 pilot here, I've seen firsthand how well Total Force Integration can work in today's Air Force," said Colonel Caldwell. "I'm thankful for the opportunity to lead the 706th Fighter Squadron and for the responsibility of continuing the 706th tradition that started in World War II."

As commander, Colonel Caldwell oversees Air Force Reserve Command members assigned to the USAFWC, supporting missions in its 57th Wing, 53rd Wing and 505th Command and Control Wing. Additionally, he manages pilots flying A-10, F-15C, F-15E, F-16 and F-22 aircraft and HH-60G helicopters.

"I've truly enjoyed my time in the 706th Fighter Squadron, said Colonel Jones. "Our dynamic members work hard every day to make a positive impact on the active-duty force here, providing additional expertise and continuity to the flying mission. That legacy is left in the capable hands of Lieutenant Colonel Caldwell to continue to improve the relationship that's been forged between the Reserve and active duty."

Colonel Caldwell earned his ROTC commission and a Bachelor of Science degree in Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering from the University of Illinois in 1987. He has more than 4,600 flying hours with more than 3,100 hours in the F-16, including 142 hours of combat time.

Colonel Caldwell joined the Reserve in 2002. Previous to taking command of the 706th FS, he served as Director of Operations for the 926th Group here.

Through TFI, the 926th GP and its squadrons augment the USAFWC with additional manpower to complete the mission. Reservists are integrated into active-duty units, working alongside their active-duty counterparts on a daily basis.

The 706th was originally a bombardment squadron, active in WWII. It was re-designated a fighter squadron in 1978, and moved to Nellis in 2006.