KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- The 403rd Wing marked a historic milestone for the unit, holding its first command chief Change of Responsibility Ceremony in the Roberts Maintenance Facility auditorium Sept. 7.
The Change of Responsibility Ceremony represents a formal transfer of responsibility from one senior enlisted leader to another, reinforcing their authority in the Air Force and support to the chain of command.
This event was held to signify the transition of Chief Master Sgt. David Jackson, outgoing 403rd Wing command chief, who served the wing since 2023 to the incoming command chief, Chief Master Sgt. Tige “Tiger” Platt; highlighting the role and the responsibility the position entails.
Col. Jaret Fish, 403rd Wing commander, started the ceremony with remarks on Jackson’s experience in the wing and said, “One of Jackson’s strengths is taking care of Airmen, and he embodies the combat ethos of let Airmen be Airmen, let them do Airmen things and demonstrate the combat ethos.”
Jackson opened his remarks by thanking those in attendance and those he served with.
“I want to thank all four of my Wing commanders, that’s right four, I survived them all,” Jackson said in jest. “I am not sure if I did something wrong, but they kept getting promoted to higher levels of leadership and headquarters kept sending me new ones, so I kept training them.”
Jackson emphasized that the 403rd Wing is not just a unit, but a family, and like a family the wing has gone through a lot together; from grueling exercises, long hours, deployments, offering encouragement, and witnessing hardships.
“We found strength in each other, and I know that moving forward the Wing is in good hands with Chief Platt and the leadership team,” said Jackson. “Being the wing command chief has been a highlight of my career, and I am incredibly proud to have served alongside each of you.”
Now Platt will take on the role of the 403rd Wing’s senior enlisted leader. The command chief is the commander’s key enlisted advocate and advisor on operational effectiveness and the organization, which includes overseeing the training, professional development, readiness, and the welfare of the Airmen.
“I am really excited and grateful for the opportunity to be here,” said Platt. “My commitment to you is simple, I will listen, I will advocate, and I will always place people first.”
Platt went on to talk about the 403rd Wing’s legacy, starting with its troop carrier history dating back to WWII, from parachute drops and air evacuations, and continuing on to the wing’s current missions.
“I am excited to serve alongside you, learn from you, and lead with you, as we continue to write the next chapter of this wing’s history,” said Platt. “Together we will stay ready, resilient, and continue to represent the very best of the Air Force Reserve. Let’s get to work!”
Fish also commented on Platt’s volume of experience from his most recent position as a career functional, his previous experience as a fire fighter and boom operator on the KC-10 Extender, to his ability to lead the Airmen into the future.
In thanks Fish said, “Thank you, Chief Jackson for what you have done, and thank you to Chief Platt for what you are about to do.”