FORT BRAGG, North Carolina – The U.S. Army Special Operations Aviation Command (Airborne) (USASOAC) welcomed a new commander during a ceremony at the USASOAC headquarters at Fort Bragg, June 26.

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Col. Philip Ryan replaced Brig. Gen. Allan Pepin as the sixth USASOAC commander. Lt. Gen. Francis Beaudette, commanding general, U.S. Army Special Operations Command, presided over the ceremony.

“USASOAC is an elite organization known for your proficiency and your unparalleled precision,” said Beaudette addressing a small, socially distanced group of family and friends. “Your culture is that which others look to as the gold standard for ARSOF (Army Special Operations Forces).”

Ryan most recently served as the executive officer to the Secretary of the Army.

“It’s an honor to welcome Phil and Jen back to this elite organization,” said Beaudette. “You’re taking the helm of an organization full of exceptional leaders capable of successfully combating the most complex challenges in any spectrum of conflict. Phil is the perfect and inspired choice to lead this organization into the future.”

Ryan previously served as the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment commander and has more than 20 years as a Night Stalker.

“Members of USASOAC both near and far, I pledge my energy and efforts to enable and provide the manning, training, and resources you need to best support our ground forces and our nation,” he said. “As this command enters our second decade, we together will help shape and forge the future of both Army Aviation and Special Operations.”

Pepin will serve as the deputy commanding general of the U.S. Army Special Operations Command here at Fort Bragg.

“It is always tough leaving a command, not because of the title, but because of the people,” said Pepin. “I was honored with the opportunity to lead and serve on this awesome team of teams.

“While leaving the USASOAC team is tough, I am grateful to change command with Col. Phil Ryan. He is an incredible leader, teammate, combat proven warrior and friend.”

For more information, please contact USASOAC public affairs at 910-907-0960 or arsoacpao@socom.mil.