Mississippi Arts Commission: Who We Are

Kris Gianakos       

The son of a career naval aviator, Colonel Gianakos received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Mississippi and his master’s degree in systems management from Troy State University.

He entered the Air Force in 1971 and received his commission via the Air Force ROTC program at Ole Miss. Earning his wings in 1977, he remained at Columbus AFB, MS as an instructor pilot in the T-37. He spent time as an academic instructor and flight examiner in the 14th Flying Training Wing standardization and evaluation division.

In 1981 he was stationed at RAF Woodbridge, flying the A-10. Duties included squadron weapons and tactics officer, supervisor of flying, 4-ship flight lead, and wing life support officer.

Returning to the United States and Columbus AFB, Colonel Gianakos served as flight commander, section commander, assistant operations officer and chief of air operations for the wing. As chief of air operations, he designed and implemented the airspace plan being used at Columbus AFB today.

Another tour in the A-10 began in 1988: Assigned to the 76th TFS at England AFB as assistant operations officer. He became chief of flight safety for the wing in 1989.  Colonel Gianakos deployed to Saudi Arabia in August 1990 with the “Flying Tigers” for operation DESERT SHIELD/STORM. Departing the desert, he reported to HQ USAFE War Plans. While in war plans, he completely revamped the method of bedding down U.S. aviation forces supporting NATO.

He returned to Columbus AFB for a third tour in 1993.  He assumed command of the 37th Flying Training Squadron “Bengal Tigers” in 1994. Colonel Gianakos became the inspector general for the 14 FTW in 1996.  Selected for promotion to Colonel in 1997, he assumed command of the 14th Operations Group where he served until his retirement in 1998.

Colonel Gianakos is a command pilot with over 4000 hours in jet trainer and fighter aircraft. He is a graduate of SOS, ACSC, AWC, Air Force Flight Safety Officer Course, Air Force Airspace Management Course, Airlift Operations Officer Course, Air Force Academic Instructors School, and the On-Scene Commander Course. Since retirement from the USAF, Colonel Gianakos has served as Chairman of Lauderdale County Republican Party, Board President of MUNA Federal Credit Union, on the boards of the Meridian Little Theater, Meridian Museum of Art (Current President) and the Meridian Council for the Arts (Current President). He currently is employed with Fidelity Technologies as a T-45 simulator instructor.

Colonel Gianakos is married to the former Bebe Greer of Meridian, Mississippi. They have two children: a daughter, Krilecia, and a son, Nicholas (deceased).

 

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