Brigadier General Jerry Baird Jr. from McDowell County is assigned to Saudi Arabia as the director of operations for U.S. Central Command. With nearly 38 years of military service, including significant roles in Poland, he highlights the importance of regional stability and his family’s support in his continued military commitment.
Brigadier General Jerry Baird Jr., a native of McDowell County, is set to depart for a significant assignment in Saudi Arabia as the new director of operations (Forward) for U.S. Central Command. Currently stationed at the Pentagon, General Baird has dedicated nearly four decades to military service, including over 22 years away from his family due to various roles in the Army and Army National Guard.
Having recently concluded a nine-month deployment to Poland, where he served as the deputy commanding general (Europe) for the 82nd Airborne Division, General Baird will now undertake a twelve-month commitment in Saudi Arabia. Expressing his dedication, he stated the importance of answering the call when the nation’s leaders seek military support, emphasizing, “No military officer should ever pin on the star of a general to say no.”
Baird acknowledged the support of his wife, Leslie, as a significant influence in his decision to remain in the army, remarking, “You still have more in the tank, we can do this.” He also expressed regret for not being home long enough to address some of the damage caused by Hurricane Helene, assuring, “She and it will be here when I return.”
The U.S. Central Command encompasses a vast area exceeding four million square miles, including over 25 ethnic groups and multiple religions. The command’s mission is to enhance regional security in collaboration with allies, covering nations like Israel, Afghanistan, Iran, and many others within the region.
General Baird emphasized the critical nature of regional stability, particularly as technological advancements have diminished the security provided by the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. He expressed hope that by undertaking this duty, his sons, also Army officers, would not have to serve in such regions, articulating, “I’ll do this now, so they may never have to.”
In summary, Brigadier General Jerry Baird Jr., with extensive military experience, is embarking on a pivotal assignment to Saudi Arabia as the director of operations for the U.S. Central Command. His commitment to service, informed by his personal values and family support, exemplifies the dedication required in military leadership. The scope of U.S. Central Command’s operations underscores the importance of maintaining stability in a complex region, an objective vital for national and global security.
Original Source: mcdowellnews.com
