Maj. Gen. James Jacobson takes command of AFDW

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Lee Osberry

Maj. Gen. James A. Jacobson officially took command of the Air Force District of Washington during a change of command ceremony here, June 20.

 

Air Force Vice Chief of Staff Gen. Stephen W. Wilson presided over the ceremony and passed the guidon to Jacobson, signifying the official departure of Maj. Gen. Darryl W. Burke as the outgoing commander.

 

“Today, your new commander inherits ready Airmen renowned for success,” Wilson said. “When it came time to choose the next AFDW commander, it was an easy choice. Great leaders continue breaking down barriers and obstacles, which block individual and organizational success.  I know Jacobson is just the guy to do that.”

 

Jacobson acknowledged the significance of AFDW’s unique role within the National Capital Region during his first official address before a crowd of Airmen, civilians and local dignitaries, and affirmed his commitment to continue the excellent partnerships.

 

“To our joint partners within the National Capital Region, you have my firm commitment to advance our relationships, command and control structure and readiness to ensure our joint team is ready to support the nation,” Jacobson said.

 

“To AFDW’s mission partners, who are diverse and extensive, we have a responsibility to make you successful in your individual missions. I look forward to working alongside you and exercising the elements of our mission to ensure our organizations are ready to work together when our nation calls on you and your teams.”

 

AFDW serves as the Air Force service component command to the Joint Force Headquarters-National Capital Region. The unit is responsible for organizing, training and equipping combat forces for aerospace expeditionary forces, homeland operations, civil support, national special security events and ceremonial events. AFDW also provides major-command-level support for 32,000 military and civilian personnel assigned worldwide.

 

Jacobson further addressed the men and women of AFDW and this specific component of AFDW’s mission.

 

“Nancy [Jacobson, wife] and I are ready to serve you as you deliver AFDW’s contingency operations in the NCR, world class ceremonial support and provide operational support to Airmen here and all across the globe,” Jacobson said.

 

The ceremony also marked the conclusion of active duty service for Burke, who took command of AFDW in July 2014 and retires after serving for more than 34 years.  Prior to the change of command, Burke was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal for his service.  He thanked everyone who supported him through the years and offered words of wisdom to current and future generations of Airmen.

 

Jacobson comes to AFDW after serving as the Inspector General for Air Mobility Command Scott Air Force Base, Ill.  A career aviator with more than 4,100 hours in the KC-10A, KC-135R/T, C-141B, C-12, T-38A & T-37B aircraft, he has served in a variety of positions at all levels of command in a 27-year career.  His commands include a global support squadron, vice wing and air expeditionary wing.

 

Additionally, he worked in multiple positions at the wing and Numbered Air Force level, and served on U.S. Africa Command and Headquarters U.S. Air Force Command staffs.

 

Jacobson conveyed his thankfulness of being the new commander and offered his outlook to the AFDW staff.

 

“We are thankful for the opportunity to serve AFDW’s Airmen,” Jacobson said. “Our charge is to make you successful in these diverse and demanding roles and tasks.  The individual Airman is the core of our Air Force’s prolonged success.  We work for you.”