03/09/2019 – CHARLOTTE, N.C. – -- U.S. Air Force Col. Stephen J. Mallette, Director of cyberspace operations for the North Carolina National Guard Bureau, gains a sense of Spring settling in with a purpose of renewal and rebirth as he pins on Brigadier General, and takes on challenging and exciting responsibilities that come with the rank during a ceremony held at the North Carolina Air National Guard Base, Charlotte Douglas International airport, March 9, 2019.
Brig. Gen. Mallette brings knowledge and wisdom with 36-plus years of service and experience; including enlisted time in the Army and Air Force. Mallette enlisted in the Army in 1982 and after four years of service, he crossed over into the blue by joining the North Carolina Air National Guard as a C-130 Hercules Loadmaster. After receiving his commission in 1991, Mallette went on to pilot training, and since then, has held a plethora of positions ranging from strategic planning and scheduling to commanding squadrons and groups.
“There’s no doubt that through his entire military career he has proven and demonstrated his proficiency as an Airman, as an officer, and as a leader of our young men and women who have served in the Air National Guard,” said Adjutant General for North Carolina National Guard, Maj. Gen. Gregory A. Lusk.
In attendance to assist in pinning on Mallette’s rank were his wife, Lt. Col. Rachel Mallette, and children, 2nd Lt. Phillip Mallette, and Cadet Melanie Mallette.
“I felt such pride for my family,” said 2nd Lt. Mallette, “It’s a huge accomplishment for him and it’s great watching him achieve his dreams.”
2nd Lt. Mallette, like his mother and father, started his career as an enlisted member and decided to attend pilot school following his commission. He will be attending the 52-week pilot training at the same school his father, Brig. Gen. Mallette attended in Columbus, MO. Brig. Gen. Mallette’s daughter, Melanie, is currently a cadet at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and plans to commission in the Air Force. When Melanie commissions, their family will be full of Air Force leadership, exuding the qualities and core values that Brig. Gen. Mallette and his wife instill.
“I joined because I enjoyed watching my parents journey in the Air Force,” said 2nd Lt. Mallette, “I’m very happy I joined.”
Brig. Gen. Mallette shared the important moments that lead to this point in his Air Force career and thanked his friends and family for their support as he relayed pieces of wisdom towards reaching goals.
“As you progress in your career, your actions speak louder than words,” said Brig. Gen. Mallette, “and your performance will be that shiny penny that helps you get recognition towards advancement.”
Brig. Gen. Mallette also had advice to give to the men and women of the North Carolina Air National Guard, having served with them for 33 years, regarding the transitions ahead.
“I see a bright future for this wing, we just have so much optimism from the folks here. I know we’re going to be successful moving forward; you all make the pride of the fleet happen out there.”