Schoolhouse continues tradition of excellence

  • Published
  • By Jamie Haig
  • 1st SOW Public Affairs
HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. --  The U.S. Air Force Special Operations School's 19th commandant took charge Monday in the schoolhouse's auditorium. 

Col. Paul Harmon assumed command from Col. John Jogerst, while Maj. Gen. Donald Wurster, Air Force Special Operations Command vice commander, presided. 

"Never before has there been a need like there is now for this kind of education," said General Wurster. "We've laid excellent groundwork and Colonel Harmon will build on this foundation." 

General Wurster continued to say how the expansion of AFSOC, with the second wing at Cannon Air Force Base, N.M., and Air Force Special Operations Forces, there's a need to have a place where all the services will learn to work together. 

"We want to plant our expertise so that they succeed as a joint, combat team," he said.
Colonel Jogerst thanked his troops, stating this was the best job he ever had. He will move to headquarters AFSOC until his retirement from the Air Force Aug. 30. 

"To the leaders of all of AFSOC, this is your school," said Colonel Jogerst. "We've trained Marines, Army and Navy as well as Air Force and the staff has done a superb job." 

The USAFSOS and the Joint Special Operations University average 15,000 students a year from every branch of service. 

"The past commanders have left a great history of where we've been and have made this a great institution," said Colonel Harmon. "I intend to keep it that way." 

He said as he walked through the school meeting staff members, he saw great enthusiasm from the staff and noticed how they worked seamlessly with the JSOU. 

"You are the heart and soul of the school," Colonel Harmon said. "The school has been in the forefront for the past 40 years because of these people. I promise to work hard for you and with you to keep the initiative going."