KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- It’s an incredible honor to assume command of the 403rd Wing tomorrow. As the deputy commander, I’ve had the privilege of seeing firsthand what our Airmen accomplish every day—and I couldn’t be prouder to lead such an exceptional team.
We owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to Col. John Benson, previous wing commander and now the Mobilization Assistant to Air Mobility Command’s Directorate of Plans, Programs, and Requirements, and Chief Master Sgt. David Jackson, command chief, who led this wing through a year of excellence and growth. Under their leadership last year, the 403rd deployed 113 reservists worldwide in support of critical missions, completed more than 1,900 flying hours, and strengthened global partnerships through major multinational exercises. Our maintainers, aircrew, support personnel, and commanders proved again and again that the 403rd Wing is agile, capable, and ready.
As Chief Jackson moves on to become the Individual Mobilization Augmentee to the Air Force Global Strike Command Command Chief, we wish him continued success in his next chapter of service. We anticipate September UTA being Chief Jackson’s last as he turns over responsibility to Chief Master Sgt. Tige “Tiger” Platt, an Individual Mobilization Augmentee serving as the Major Command Functional Manager for the Career Enlisted Aviator career field.
Looking ahead, our mission continues with intensity. The Combat Readiness Inspection in October will be a major milestone, followed by exercises stateside and abroad that prepare us for deployments and contested environments. Our focus remains clear: Airman Readiness, Airman Development, and transforming how we deliver mission success—anchored in our Air Force Core Values of Integrity First, Service Before Self and Excellence in All We Do.
We serve in an extraordinary component. The Air Force Reserve delivers 20% of the Air Force’s capability at just 3% of the budget. We are efficient, experienced, and always ready. Our Airmen bring unmatched knowledge—many with prior service and more flight hours than their active-duty counterparts. From humanitarian support to combat air power, the Wing of Choice stands ready to respond globally.
I’m confident we’ll meet every challenge ahead with the same professionalism and pride that defines the 403rd Wing. To our Airmen: thank you for your service, your dedication, and your excellence. I am extremely proud to lead this wing as we keep our focus on readiness, growth, and transformation.