This Monday, Colonel Diego José Sánchez Caamaño officially took over as the new head of Albacete Air Base, Chief of Ala 14, and Air Military Commander of the Valencia and Ciudad Real Airports. The ceremony, led by the General Chief of the General Air Command, took place at the Air Force Base of Los Llanos in the provincial capital.
Sánchez Caamaño is taking over from Colonel Ignacio Zulueta Martín. After the ceremony, Cabañero expressed the pride that the entire province feels for the Air Base and Ala 14, emphasizing the historical importance and commitment of those who have been part of these institutions. The mayor wished the new military leader success in the mission ahead, recognizing the significant role of the Armed Forces in modern society, especially in a city like Albacete with strong connections to its Air Base based on history, economic, social, and personal ties.
Serrano thanked the outgoing colonel for his work and collaboration, mentioning that «Albacete will always remember the celebrations of the 50th anniversary of Ala 14, which we are still celebrating and of which he has been the main architect.» Finally, the mayor expressed his commitment to «consolidate and strengthen a collaborative relationship that is a source of mutual benefit for Albacete and its Air Base, which must work together for the progress of society as a whole.»
A few days ago, provincial president Santiago Cabañero had the opportunity to spend some time with both the outgoing and incoming colonels, wishing them the best in their respective roles and offering the support of the Diputación de Albacete for future collaborations, highlighting the close relationship and continuous support of the provincial government towards Albacete Air Base and its members.
The Director General of Citizen Protection, Emilio Puig, along with the Junta delegate in Albacete, Pedro Antonio Ruiz Santos, and the provincial delegate of Public Administrations, Sergio Marín, represented the Castilla-La Mancha Government on Monday during the swearing-in ceremony. This demonstrates the government’s support for this important institution in terms of security for Albacete and the entire region, as well as the collaboration between the Regional Government and the Air Force.
The presence of government officials at the ceremony underscores the significance of the leadership change at Albacete Air Base and the continued commitment to collaboration between various levels of government and the military in ensuring the safety and well-being of the region. This handover of leadership marks a new chapter for the base and its operations, with the incoming colonel poised to lead with dedication and excellence in service to the community.