Meet the new JCSE commander

  • Published
  • By Col. Kirby Watson
  • Joint Communications Support Element
MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Col. Kirby Watson assumed command of the Joint Communications Support Element July 27. He took time out to introduce himself to the MacDill community and answered a few questions from the Thunderbolt.

1) What do you expect of the service members under your command?

I expect the service members of JCSE to continue to do exactly what they are doing today, provide world class communications support to our customers anytime and anyplace we are called to serve.

2) Who are your favorite leaders and role models and why?

I am a fan of President Abraham Lincoln. He lead our country through one its toughest challenges in our history, and he did it as a caring, humble leader. I worked for President George W. Bush, whom I have a lot of respect for as well. He also lead through a challenging time for our country and did it with one of the strongest sense of service that I have ever seen. These are traits we can emulate and adopt as we grow as leaders.

3) What does it mean to you to be a new commander?

The opportunity to serve as a commander at any level is a great honor as well as a great responsibility. Citizens have given us care of the things that mean the absolute most to them, their sons, daughters, mothers and fathers. It is hard to over-emphasize the privilege it is to command the great service members of our country.

4) When you hold your first commander's call what is the first thing you are going to tell your troops?

The first thing I will tell them is I am very proud of what they and their families have done for JCSE, their services and their country. I am proud to have the opportunity serve beside them once again.

5) What are your thoughts about MacDill and living in Tampa?

MacDill AFB and Tampa, Fla., are great places to raise a family. My family started day one by meeting the great people of Florida in our neighborhood, at the family YMCA and our local church. We are excited to be members of this wonderful community.

6) Is there anything else you would like to add?

My wife, Amy, and I are thrilled to be part of the MacDill community. We look forward to the opportunity to meet and work with our fellow family members on base and in the Tampa area.