Two Wyoming Air National Guard commanders relieved of duty due to loss of confidence

Published Jul 22, 07:25 PM UTC

On July 17, 2026, two senior Wyoming Air National Guard commanders—153rd Airlift Wing Commander Col. Brian Diehl and 153rd Operations Group Commander Col. Lawrence Sullivan—were relieved of their posts due to a loss of confidence and trust in their ability to lead. Brig. Gen. Barry Deibert, commander of the Air Component at Joint Force Headquarters, made the decision, citing that leaders are held to the highest standards of professional conduct. Officials did not elaborate on the specific reasons for the loss of confidence. Col. Bret Trippel assumed interim command of the 153rd Airlift Wing, and Lt. Col. Tony Silva took interim command of the 153rd Operations Group. The Wyoming Military Department stated the leadership transition does not affect the wing's mission readiness or deployment preparations. The 153rd Airlift Wing, based in Cheyenne, Wyoming, operates C-130 Hercules aircraft and provides tactical airlift and aerial support.