Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind nominated to be next Academy Superintendent

  • Published
  • By Dean Miller
  • U.S. Air Force Academy Strategic Communications
U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. --  President Joe Biden has nominated Lt. Gen. Tony D. Bauernfeind to become the Superintendent of the U.S. Air Force Academy.

“I am humbled by the nomination to be the 22nd Superintendent of our Academy,” said Bauernfeind. “The opportunity to develop warfighters, leaders of character and quality, and critical thinkers for our Air Force and Space Force is an honor. I look forward to building on the legacy of Lt. Gen. Clark and all prior Superintendents as we ready our future officers to lead and win in uncertain, complex and contested environments.”

If confirmed by the Senate, Bauernfeind will direct the Academy’s undergraduate academic program, cadet military and athletic training, and character development, all part of a 47-month program leading to a bachelor of science degree and a commission as a second lieutenant.

Bauernfeind is currently the Commander of Air Force Special Operations Command, and has served in the special operations community at the squadron, group, wing, coalition and combatant command level. He graduated from the Academy in 1991.

“Leading the Academy has been an amazing experience, and I know that our Academy is in great hands with Lt. Gen. Bauernfeind,” said Lt. Gen. Richard Clark. “Lt. Gen. Bauernfeind’s operational experience will be a key factor as the Academy moves forward in the development of leaders of character ready for Great Power Competition.”

Bauernfeind will take command pending confirmation by the Senate. Clark, who has committed 38 years of service to the nation and the Air Force, is scheduled to retire June 1, 2024.

For more information, please contact U.S. Air Force Academy Strategic Communications at (719) 333-7731 or email media.rel@afacademy.af.edu