MCAS Yuma marks change of command

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Yuma welcomed a new commander during a touching and musical change of command ceremony.

Col. Jared K. Stone officially handed command of MCAS Yuma over to Col. David J. Bennett after serving as station commander for the past three years.

Reflecting on the importance of the air station, Col. Stone said, "You cannot be a pilot in the marine corps and not eventually come to marine corps air station yuma, and it's getting harder and harder to be a ground-side marine and not come to marine corps air station Yuma."

During his outgoing remarks, Stone thanked the dedicated men and women who support the base every day.

"Imagine maintaining all the facilities on this installation, two million acres of airspace and 1.2 million acres of ground ranges, and all of the assets that go into supporting the training. That's what the staff here does, and that's pretty incredible," Stone said.

For Col. Bennett, taking command marks the culmination of nearly three decades of service in the Marine Corps.

"28 years for me to finally stand in front of you all this day and have this moment," Bennett said.

The incoming commander also thanked the mentors and senior leaders who helped shape his journey to this moment.

"All the senior leaders out there within the core who kept faith with me, allowed me an opportunity to heal...and probably more importantly for me right now, as an opportunity again to lead the best of our nation, has to offer breeds of sailors, contractors, civilians who are working here in Yuma," Bennett said.

Bennett says he is honored to lead the men and women of MCAS Yuma as the air station continues its critical role in training the next generation of Marines.