JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas –
Col. Jason Harris took command of the Air Force Security Forces Center knowing his prior assignments were all opportunities that led to the moment in July when he accepted the unit guidon and took charge of the center.
Harris graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1998 with a degree in political science and was commissioned in the Air Force. A career security forces officer with more than 26 years of service, he is now responsible for a cross-functional organization that identifies and validates new and innovative force protection initiatives to improve Department of the Air Force mission execution and joint warfighting capabilities.
We asked the new AFSFC commander a few questions about his life and career, and his thoughts about being a member of the AFIMSC team.
Where is your hometown?
I grew up in Hope Mills, a small town just outside of Fayetteville, North Carolina. Most people have never heard of it, so I sometimes say Fayetteville.
Please tell us a little about your career leading up to this point:
I've had a diverse career. Each assignment provided me with amazing opportunities and allowed me to work with outstanding people. I was lucky enough to spend nine years of my career in Germany. There were ups and downs, but the travel was amazing. I’m particularly proud of not only leading a division in the European theater but also of creating and beginning the foundation for a new division that will play a significant role in operations throughout the theater at such a historical time.
What about your new role has you most excited?
I am most excited to get to work with my fellow Defenders and positively impact our security forces career field.
What is something people would be surprised to know about you?
Despite what the expression on my face might tell you, I'm pretty laid back. I can get along with most anyone, but we all have our triggers.
What do you like most about serving in the Air Force?
The best thing about the Air Force is the people: those who have taken an oath and decided to lead their lives according to common principles.