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From Eagles to the Stars: wing commander becomes a general

  • Published
  • By Samuel King Jr.
  • Team Eglin Public Affairs
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla --  On the afternoon of Sept. 2, surrounded by his family and flanked by friends, Christopher Azzano had his Eagle ranks removed and replaced with Stars.

The symbolic gesture of the stars pin on by his family members signified the 96th Test Wing commander's promotion to the rank of brigadier general.

"This is the result of a lot of hard work and a true team effort," said the Michigan native and 24-year veteran.  "For all the Airmen and communities I've been able to serve, this is a shared accomplishment."

Former 96th TW commander, Maj. Gen. David Harris returned here to preside over the promotion ceremony. 

"This wing is very fortunate to have a leadership team like the Azzanos," said Harris, who also officiated Azzano's previous promotion to colonel.  "You've got one great commander here.  I couldn't recommend him more."

After his new stars were pinned on, Azzano recited the oath of office and was presented with his new one-star flag.

"Any promotion in the military fulfills a need," said Azzano.  "The reason I'm standing here is the Air Force had a need.  I was deemed available and qualified, but this promotion is not about me."

The new general received his commission in 1991.  Before taking command of the 96th Test Wing in June, he was the 72nd Air Base Wing commander at Tinker Air Force Base, Okla.