22nd Air Force’s new general

  • Published
  • By Capt. Anita Pavey
  • Public Affairs
Maj. Gen. Martin M. Mazick assumed command of 22nd Air Force on March 11, from Maj. Gen. James D. Bankers. 

General Mazick, who previously served as the Director of Operations for Air Force Reserve Command at Robins Air Force Base, Ga., managed the command’s flying program, comprised of more than 40 wings flying 20 different types of aircraft. He managed AFRCs counter-drug, intelligence, aerial port and space programs, as well as an Aerospace Expeditionary Force Cell and a 24-hour command center. 

General Mazick thanked his family for many years of support and challenged 22nd Air Force members to continue the tradition of hard work and dedication. 

“Our number one responsibility is to ensure our people are trained, ready and equipped,” General Mazick said. “There is much we will get to do together here at 22nd Air Force. Staff, keep your sleeves rolled up because the best is yet to come as we move on out.” 

Lt. Gen. John A. Bradley, chief of the Air Force Reserve and commander, Air Force Reserve Command, who presided at the ceremony, lauded both generals and thanked their families for their support and accomplishments. 

“As most of us can say, we wouldn’t be where we are today without that kind of support of wonderful spouses,” General Bradley said. He also welcomed General Mazick as 22nd Air Force’s new commander. 

“I’m very pleased and proud that we will have him as our commander here at 22nd Air Force,” General Bradley said. “He has a broad range of experience in our command, and that’s why we’ve selected him as our commander here.” 

Also in attendance were retired Lt. Gen. James E. Sherrard III, former chief of the Air Force Reserve and commander, Air Force Reserve Command; commanders of 22nd Air Force’s 14 wings, along with other general officers and former 22nd Air Force commanders. 

General Bankers, who has commanded the unit for nearly six years, retired March 31 and concluded a military career, which has spanned more than 37 years. General Bradley presented him with the Distinguished Service Medal. General Bankers also had praise for his family and 22nd Air Force. 

“I can sum up my feelings right now in just two words, and those are ‘thank you,’” he said. “Thank you for your dedication, your patriotism and for all your contributions to this country. When times are tough you often wonder who is going to stand up and be counted. I don’t need to wonder. I know it’s you.”