New commander to lead 419th Operations Group

  • Published
  • 419th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah – The 419th Operations Group said farewell to Col. David Castaneda as he passed the flag to Col. Sean Carpenter during a change of command ceremony here March 23.

 

Carpenter comes to Hill from Robins AFB, Georgia, where he served as individual mobilization assistant to the director of safety at Air Force Reserve Command. He is a command pilot with more than 3,000 flying hours, including 325 in combat.

 

Upon taking command, Carpenter spoke to a gathering of Airmen, base leadership, and community members. He lauded the “incredibly impressive” F-35 aircraft and the extraordinary service and contributions of those in the OG.

 

“I am humbled and honored to work for you all,” he said.

 

Castaneda had served as the OG commander since June 2016. He has been with the wing since July 2001 and will take a new job in Washington, D.C. as Reserve Advisor, Directorate of Operations, Headquarters Air Force.

 

The OG is the hub of Air Force Reserve flying operations at Hill and includes the operations support flight and 466th Fighter Squadron, which flies the F-35 Lightning II.