Brigadier General Jerry Baird Jr., a McDowell County native, embarks on a new assignment as the director of operations (Forward) for U.S. Central Command in Saudi Arabia. With 38 years of military experience, he emphasizes the importance of perseverance and leadership. Baird reflects on family support and the vital mission of maintaining regional stability in a diverse and complex area.

Brigadier General Jerry Baird Jr., a native of McDowell County, has dedicated nearly 38 years of his life to military service. Currently stationed at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., he prepares for a new role as the director of operations (Forward) for U.S. Central Command in Saudi Arabia. This assignment follows a nine-month deployment in Poland as deputy commanding general for the 82nd Airborne Division.

General Baird emphasizes the honor of serving his country and the importance of perseverance in leadership. “No military officer should ever pin on the star of a general to say no,” he stated, highlighting his commitment to soldier welfare and readiness to fulfill obligations despite personal discomfort. His belief in setting an example is reinforced by his two sons who are also serving in the Army.

Baird acknowledges the significant support from his wife, Leslie, who inspires him to continue excelling in his military career. He expresses gratitude for her encouragement, stating, “You still have more in the tank, we can do this.” As he prepares for this 12-month assignment beginning this spring, Baird reflects on the personal sacrifices involved in military life and the impact of recent storms on his home.

Baird is tasked with important responsibilities at U.S. Central Command, which encompasses over 4 million square miles and a diverse population exceeding 560 million across 25 ethnic groups. The command focuses on enhancing regional stability in collaboration with allies from 21 nations across the Middle East and surrounding strategic waterways.

In addressing the broader implications of his mission, Baird remarked on the diminishing geographical barriers due to technological advances, emphasizing that stabilizing regions abroad is vital for U.S. security. He expresses a parental hope that his sons, Chase and Seth, will not have to face combat in these areas, asserting, “I’ll do this now, so they may never have to.”

Baird anticipates the challenges ahead, noting, “My last time in the desert it was much warmer than it was in Poland, so I am packing accordingly.” He will lead service members from all branches of the military, including the Air Force, Marines, Navy, Space Force, and Army, in fulfilling this mission.

Brigadier General Jerry Baird Jr.’s upcoming deployment to Saudi Arabia underscores his extensive military service and commitment to national security. As the director of operations (Forward) for U.S. Central Command, he aims to foster regional stability while managing diverse challenges across a significant area of responsibility. Baird’s dedication to his family and his soldiers illustrates the sacrifices inherent in a military career, enhancing his resolve to lead by example.

Original Source: mcdowellnews.com

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