McDowell County Native and Army General Jerry Baird Heads to Saudi Arabia

Brigadier General Jerry Baird Jr. of McDowell County is set for a 12-month assignment in Saudi Arabia as the U.S. Central Command’s director of operations (Forward). With 38 years of military service and 22 years away from family, he emphasizes service dedication while reflecting on family support for his military decisions. His mission focuses on regional stability across vast territories and diverse populations.

U.S. Army Brigadier General Jerry Baird Jr., a McDowell County native from Nebo, is set to embark on a 12-month assignment in Saudi Arabia as the new director of operations (Forward) for U.S. Central Command. With 38 years of military service, including over 22 years away from family, Baird continues to demonstrate commitment to his country and his soldiers.

Having recently completed a nine-month deployment in Poland, where he served as the deputy commanding general (Europe) for the 82nd Airborne Division, Baird expresses pride in his duties. He states, “It has been an honor to serve this great nation. 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.”

Baird is motivated not only by duty but also by his family, particularly his wife, Leslie, whose encouragement has been invaluable. He commented, “The best part is I have an amazing wife, Leslie, who frankly is why I am still in uniform. It is she who pushes me to achieve more. Her favorite line to me is, ‘You still have more in the tank, we can do this.'”

As he prepares for his upcoming assignment, Baird reflects on the importance of regional stability and the responsibilities of U.S. Central Command, which spans over 4 million square miles involving numerous ethnic groups and complex relations. He remarked, “The importance of regional stability has never been more important in foreign lands.”

Baird’s hopes for his sons, who also serve in the Army, reflect a desire for peace: “To be honest, my hope is that my two sons… will never have to visit any of these countries wearing an Army uniform and carrying their weapons. I’ll do this now, so they may never have to.” With involvement from all military branches, Baird approaches his mission with careful preparation and a spirit of service.

In conclusion, Brigadier General Jerry Baird Jr.’s career exemplifies dedication through years of military service. His upcoming deployment to Saudi Arabia underscores the significance of U.S. Central Command in maintaining regional stability. Through both personal conviction and family support, General Baird continues to inspire those around him while looking forward to a critical mission that will contribute to global peace and security.

Original Source: mcdowellnews.com