The U.S. Marine Corps Air Station Yuma recently held a change of command ceremony, transferring leadership from one commander to another. On July 17, underneath the sound of roaring planes, MCAS Yuma welcomed back a familiar face: Col. David J. Bennett.
Serving as commander of MCAS Yuma is a full circle moment for Bennett, who previously came to Yuma in 2002 and returned over the years to work with the base on training missions.
In 2008, he was stationed in Yuma to serve on a four-year tour as an instructor pilot for Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One (MAWTS-1)
During that time, he and his family became members of the community, including his daughter, who graduated from a local high school in Yuma.
“To get an opportunity to join and come be a part of and ultimately get the lead in command — I'm humbled to be in charge.” Bennett said, addressing the crowd at the change of command ceremony. “We're ready to partner with you and the rest of the community."
Bennett's predecessor was Col. Jared K. Stone, who transferred command when he passed the battle colors to Bennett.
“I'm so proud to have had the opportunity to lead here," Stone said. “To have led such an incredible group of individuals willing to sacrifice themselves, literally willing to give their lives for their country”.
Stone wasn't only relinquishing command of MCAS Yuma, however. Concluding his command also concluded his career as a Marine. Stone shared he was retiring.
Maj. Gen. Robert B. Brodie, a longtime friend of Stone and his family, was the guest of honor at the ceremony. Over the years, he shared that he's had the opportunity to watch his friend improve MCAS Yuma through his time as commander.
“He has personally worked diligently to change the air space which is absolutely important, and what would have normally taken about three years to do, coordination with FAA and across the board, he got and his team got done in six months” he said.
For the next three years, Bennett will serve as commander of MCAS Yuma — a new chapter in his 28-year Marine career.
His priorities?
"To continue to maintain and improve our relationships between this base and the city around us," he said.
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