The Canadian Forces have announced a replacement for Col. Russell Williams as commander of the 8 Wing Trenton military base.

Toronto native Lt.-Col Dave Cochrane will take control of the Ontario base on Feb. 19, when he is officially promoted to the rank of Colonel, said Chief of Air Staff, Lt.-Gen Andre Deschamps in a statement Friday.

Cochrane has a masters degree in defence studies from the Royal Military College. He is married to Sherri Cochrane (nee Smith) of Ottawa. They have a son, 13-year-old Jamie, and a daughter, 12-year-old Lindsay.

"I believe Col. Cochrane has the exceptional leadership qualities necessary to lead 8 Wing Trenton at this challenging and critical time, as the Canadian Forces are experiencing an unprecedented operational tempo," Deschamps said.

"He is a highly experienced, trustworthy and capable commander who is well known in the local community, as are his wife and children. He is a respected member of the air mobility community and has my utmost

confidence."

Cochrane will take over from Lt.-Col. David Murphy, who has served as acting commander since Williams, 46, was arrested in connection the murder of 27-year-old Jessica Lloyd.

Williams was charged Monday with two counts of first-degree murder. He is currently being held at a provincial jail in Napanee, Ont., where it is reported he is on suicide watch. He has been placed in a segregation cell where he can be monitored by staff.