Eglin welcomes new commander during critical time for essential missions
Colonel Chris Keithley has officially assumed command of the 96th Test Wing at Eglin Air Force Base, taking over leadership from Brig. General Mark Massaro. During the ceremony, Major General Scott Cain emphasized the critical role the wing plays in national defense, while Keithley urged the team to avoid complacency and continuously assess their operational assumptions.
Plew plants a prophetic mustard seed for Eglin AFB
On June 14, 1937, the Valparaiso Gunnery Range was established with a small post of 14 enlisted men and a single officer, marking the beginning of what would become the largest industry in Okaloosa County. Local business leader James Plew leased the original land to ensure government money bolstered the flagging local economy. The base quickly grew and shifted to a more lucrative test-and-evaluation mission, a transition encouraged by Congressman Bob Sikes. Sikes intentionally drove significant construction, ensuring the base’s indispensability and making the cost of shrinking the military presence after World War II too painful for the Department of War. Plew’s initial investment proved highly effective, as the Air Force Base accounted for nearly 70 cents of every dollar made in Okaloosa County businesses in 2025.
Former AFSOC chief will face general court-martial
Former AFSOC Chief Master Sergeant Anthony Green will face a general court-martial to answer charges of creating child pornography
GAO Names Local Contractor In Audit Report
A Crestview defense contractor is flagged in a new GAO report after failing to account for government-owned property, exposing deeper issues with the Air Force’s inventory management system.
Charges Against Former AFSOC Chief Anthony Green Revealed
The Air Force Special Operations Command’s former top enlisted man will face serious charges, starting in February.
Eglin Air Force Base on lockdown due to bomb threat, sources say
Eglin Air Force Base on lockdown due to bomb threat, sources say Staff Reports November 12, 2025 2:50 pm Eglin Air Force Base EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE — A source with knowledge of the situation has told Mid Bay News that Eglin Air Force Base is on lockdown due to a bomb threat. According to […]
In Photos: Veterans Day in Okaloosa County
Photo Gallery: Veterans Day celebrations in Okaloosa County
Active-Duty EOD Technician Honors Vietnam Veteran with Bedside Salute on Veterans Day
On Veterans Day, Senior Airman Justin Hart honored Vietnam veteran and former EOD technician Irv Duvall with a bedside salute at Shoal Creek River Rehab, recognizing his decades of service and sacrifice.
HVAC Give-Back: Local A/C Company Donates New System to Vet During Government Shutdown
Air Force Sergeant John Demos and his family are receiving a brand-new HVAC system from Mills Heating and Air, a welcome gift during financial hardship caused by the government shutdown.
Duke Field aircraft crashes near Oklahoma City; crew walks away
A training flight from Duke Field’s 492nd Special Operations Wing ended in a crash near Oklahoma City on Thursday — but both crew members, an airman and a civilian contractor, escaped without injury.
