DOBBINS AIR RESERVE BASE, Georgia -- 94th Airlift Wing Commander Brig. Gen. Steven B. Parker promoted to his new rank at a ceremony here Jan. 6, 2017, making him the first one-star wing commander at Dobbins in over a decade.
Parker’s presidential nomination to general officer was confirmed by the U.S. Senate Dec. 7, 2016. The last general officer to hold the position was Brig. Gen. Mark Stogsdill who retired from the post in 2006.
Twenty-Second Air Force Commander Maj. Gen. John P. Stokes presided over the ceremony and remarked that the percentage of individuals promoted to general officer is low.
"General officer is a big deal and opens a whole new world," Stokes said. "I look forward to navigating through that with [Brig. Gen.] Steve [Parker]."
Parker began his career flying the F-15 Eagle and has flown more than 3,600 hours in fighter and trainer aircraft throughout his career. He is a 1986 graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy.
"He clearly separated himself from the rest of the candidates at an early time," Stokes said.
"He graduated at the top of his [F-15] class."
Parker explained he couldn't have reached this career milestone alone. He acknowledged several mentors and leaders from throughout his career who recognized potential in him, including the unknown individual who selected him for a nomination to the U.S. Air Force Academy after being originally slated as an alternate.
The new general also recognized his wife, Karen, for playing an essential role in his achievement.
"I wouldn't be where I am today without her support and enthusiasm," he said. "This was definitely a team effort."
Parker will continue to command the 94th Airlift Wing and serve as the Dobbins Air Reserve Base installation commander, which hosts over 12,000 tenant personnel and 13 tenant units.