Gary M. Batinich
Era: Post Cold War / Other
Military Branch: Air Force
Gary M. Batinich
Eveleth Native Promoted to Brigadier General [Title of article]
“President Bush has approved the promotion of an Eveleth, Minnesota native to the rank of brigadier general in the Air Force Reserve.
“Col. M. Batinich is one of 12 Air Force Reserve colonels selected for promotion. The promotions take effect upon U.S. Senate confirmation and by the direction of the chief of Air Force Reserve.
“Batinich is commander of the 419th Fighter wing, based at Hill Air Force Base, Utah. The F-16 wing is made up of more than 1,100 Reserve members. Hill is one of the bases where the Air Force is considering stationing the F-35 Lightning II when the advanced fighter enters service.
“Batinich received his commission upon graduation from the U.S. Air Force Academy in May 1978. He earned his aeronautical rating after completing undergraduate pilot training at Williams Air Force Base, Ariz., in July 1979. He joined the 419th Fighter Wing in July 1987 and has been serving as its commander since August 2004. He has logged more than 3,200 hours in the F-16. He is married to the former Bobbie Olson also of Eveleth, Minnesota. They have three daughters, Rachel, Cassie and Hollie.”
Source: Duluth News Tribune, “Northland Briefs,” January 23, 2008
