The 31st FW is the only permanently assigned U.S. Air Force fighter wing south of the Alps. It plays a critical role in supporting air combat operations and provides combat-ready forces for NATO and U.S. European Command across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
Col. Diers previously served as the wing’s deputy commander before stepping into his new role. He will be the first in a line of future commanders to lead the wing at the rank of colonel, as the 31st FW transitions away from general officer command.
Maj. Gen. Moga reflected on this leadership transition, stating, “Gen. Hecker said there was only one person he felt was best fit to lead this transition: Col Beau Diers.” He added, “You are about to inherit another gifted, highly talented leader and commander.”
The ceremony included the traditional passing of the wing guidon, symbolising the formal transfer of command from Clark to Diers. A further symbol of change occurred when Clark’s name was removed from the Wing Flagship aircraft and replaced with Diers’, led by dedicated crew chiefs from the 510th Fighter Generation Squadron.
Brig. Gen. Clark addressed the wing one last time, reflecting on his time at Aviano. “It has been a total honor to be at this Wing not for one year, or two, but for three whole years,” he said. “What a privilege this has been, thank you Wyvern Nation for your enduring support.”
In his first remarks as commander, Diers expressed enthusiasm and commitment to his new role. “There’s no place I’d rather be because we’re busy with a purpose and what we do matters,” he said. “I’m proud to be here and honored to serve with you all for the next two years.”
The strategic location of Aviano Air Base requires constant readiness and the ability to deploy and generate combat airpower rapidly. Clark concluded, “When you do it right, with the right team, empowering them correctly, you’re able to strike success repeatedly and that’s exactly what we’ve been able to do here at the 31st Fighter Wing.”
