Brigadier General Jerry Baird Jr. Embarks on New Assignment in Saudi Arabia

Brigadier General Jerry Baird Jr., a McDowell County native, is set to serve as director of operations (Forward) for U.S. Central Command in Saudi Arabia. With a 38-year military career, he has previously held significant positions, including a recent deployment in Poland. He emphasizes the importance of leadership, family support, and the mission’s role in ensuring regional stability for the U.S.

Brigadier General Jerry Baird Jr., a notable native of McDowell County from Nebo, boasts an extensive military career spanning 38 years. Currently based in the Pentagon, he is set to embark on a new assignment in Saudi Arabia as the director of operations (Forward) for U.S. Central Command. This follows a nine-month deployment in Poland as the deputy commanding general (Europe) under the 82nd Airborne Division, a role that also encompassed responsibility for security assistance to Ukraine.

Baird’s commitment to military service is underscored by the time spent away from his family. He emphasizes the responsibilities of leadership, stating, “No military officer should ever pin on the star of a general to say no. When our nation’s leaders ask us to go, we go.” He recognizes the sacrifices required and notes the substantive support from his spouse, Leslie, who encourages his continued service. He attributes his career persistence to her motivation, saying, “You still have more in the tank, we can do this.”

As Baird prepares to depart this spring for Saudi Arabia, he expresses regret for not having enough time to address personal matters at home, particularly damages from Hurricane Helene. Nevertheless, he reassures himself with the support of his wife, stating, “Leslie says she and it will be here when I return. She is great.”

Baird highlights the significance of Central Command’s expansive mission, which covers 4 million square miles and encompasses regions populous with various ethnic groups and languages. This mission aims to bolster military operations and regional stability in alignment with U.S. interests across the Middle East and Central Asia, including nations like Israel, Afghanistan, and Saudi Arabia.

He reflects on the evolving concept of national security, noting, “The importance of regional stability has never been more important in foreign lands.” Baird actively hopes that his sons, also in the Army, might avoid deployment in these regions, further demonstrating his commitment to protecting their future. As he prepares for the climate differences of Saudi Arabia, he quips lightly, “From what I remember, my last time in the desert it was much warmer than it was in Poland, so I am packing accordingly.”

Baird’s upcoming role will involve collaboration with diverse service members from across all branches of the military, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Space Force, emphasizing joint efforts in maintaining regional security.

Brigadier General Jerry Baird Jr.’s dedication to the U.S. Army and upcoming assignment in Saudi Arabia illustrates the weight of military leadership and commitment. His reflections on service, family support, and the military’s critical role in global stability highlight the challenges and responsibilities faced by modern military personnel. As he embarks on this new chapter, his hope is for the safety and future of the next generation of soldiers, including his sons.

Original Source: mcdowellnews.com