Hunter Army Airfield welcomes new commander in change of command ceremony

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - A new commander officially took the helm at Hunter Army Airfield during a change of command ceremony Friday.

Incoming commander Lt. Col. Kyle Stilwell assumed command from outgoing commander Lt. Col. Derick Taylor, who has led the garrison since August 2024 after arriving in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Debby.

Taylor’s next assignment will be with the Special Operations Joint Task Force.

As he prepares for the transition, Taylor said he will miss both the people at Hunter Army Airfield and the Savannah community.

“Not just the people here at Hunter Army Airfield — the soldiers, their families and the Army civilians, who have been amazing to work with — but also the people of the community,” Taylor said. “Savannah is the Hostess City for a reason. It’s been amazing working with the community leaders and community members.”

Taylor said he is confident Hunter Army Airfield will continue to thrive under Stilwell’s leadership.

“He’s going to do fantastic things,” Taylor said.

Stilwell now takes command of the installation, succeeding Taylor after nearly two years of service as garrison commander.