307th Bomb Wing Gains New Commander

  • Published
  • By 307th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
  • 307th Bomb Wing
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. --  

Col. David Martinez took command of the 307th Bomb Wing during a ceremony here September 7.

Martinez brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously served as commander for the 489th Bomb Group and deputy wing commander.

In his first address as wing commander, Martinez alluded to the importance of the Total Force Integration (TFI) concept and deep community involvement that have become hallmarks of Barksdale Air Force Base.

 

“In front of me is an incredible team, and it’s not just the 307th Bomb Wing,” he said. “It includes our TFI partners at the 2nd Bomb wing, 8th Air Force, Air Force Global Strike Command, our community leaders from Louisiana and Texas, and most importantly, the friends and families gathered here today.”

The Texas native earned his commission upon graduating from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1999 before serving in his first role as a B-52 Aircraft Commander with the 23rd Bomb Squadron, Minot Airforce Base, North Dakota.

Martinez served on active duty for 10 years before joining the Air Force Reserve in 2010 as Assistant Director of Operations for the 78th Attack Squadron, Creech Air Force Base, Nevada.

From 1999 to 2021, Martinez reached numerous educational milestones, including earning a master’s degree in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College and completing seven professional military education courses, including Air Command and Staff College and the Joint Fire Power Course.

Martinez has logged more than 3,700 hours across multiple platforms, including the  B-52 Stratofortress, B-1 Lancer, MQ-1 Predator, and MQ-9 Reaper. He has also flown in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

During his speech, Martinez spoke directly to the Airmen of the 307th Bomb Wing.

“Change is coming to the command, but I need you to stay focused,” said Martinez. “My vision is for the 307th Bomb Wing to remain resourced, ready and resilient, and I will do everything within my ability and authority to enable that.”

Martinez replaced Col. David Anderson, who has served as commander of the 307th BW since 2022.