In a historic and heartfelt ceremony held Monday, July 28, Col. Chris Cain officially assumed command of the 2nd Bomb Wing at Barksdale Air Force Base, becoming the new installation commander—and believed to be the first known Bossier City native to hold the position.

The change of command ceremony, held at Hoban Hall, marked the official transition of leadership from outgoing commander Col. Michael Maginness, who retires after more than 20 years of distinguished service in the U.S. Air Force.

Col. Cain brings with him a unique blend of personal connection, operational experience, and deep commitment to service. Born and raised just outside the gates of Barksdale, Cain said he grew up watching B-52 bombers soar overhead—never imagining that one day he would lead the wing that operates them.

“What an incredible opportunity,” Cain said. “I grew up just outside of Barksdale Air Force Base. I remember watching the B-52s flying over as a kid. Now to be able to take them into the next chapter—it’s a true blessing.”

Before joining the Air Force, Cain had a very different career path. He worked as a school teacher and briefly ventured into marketing. But the call to serve had always been there.

“I’m late to the Air Force,” Cain shared. “I was a school teacher before, I did some marketing for a while. But I always wanted to serve.”

Now a seasoned officer with 2,800 flying hours—including over 300 in combat—Cain has spent more than half of his military career stationed at Barksdale. His most recent role was deputy inspector general for Air Force Global Strike Command, also headquartered on base.

Bossier City Mayor Tommy Chandler, who attended the ceremony, praised Cain’s appointment.

“This is amazing. I think this is the first time Barksdale has had a Bossier City native as their 2nd Bomb Wing commander,” Chandler said. “We are going to have a great relationship—we’ve already started.”

Col. Maginness was honored during the ceremony for his leadership and decades of service, which included guiding the 2nd Bomb Wing through critical operational milestones and community partnerships. He departs with the gratitude of both the base and the broader Bossier-Shreveport community.

As Col. Cain takes the reins, expectations are high—but so is the sense of optimism. With deep hometown roots and a clear vision for the future of the 2nd Bomb Wing, his leadership represents both continuity and renewal at one of the nation’s most strategic air bases.

“To serve where I grew up—it doesn’t get more full-circle than this,” Cain said.

The 2nd Bomb Wing, headquartered at Barksdale Air Force Base, operates B-52H Stratofortress bombers and provides combat-ready forces in support of global operations. The change of command ceremony is a time-honored military tradition symbolizing the continuity of leadership and the transfer of responsibility, authority, and accountability from one officer to another.