Gen. Jacqueline Desiree Van Ovost, born on September 29, 1965, stands as a distinguished figure in the United States Air Force, currently serving as the 14th Commander of U.S. Transportation Command since October 15, 2021. President Biden nominated her for this role on March 5, 2021, marking a significant milestone in her impressive military career.
Education has been a cornerstone of Van Ovost's journey. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Engineering from the United States Air Force Academy in 1988. Her commitment to continuous learning is evident in her multiple master's degrees, including mechanical engineering from California State University, Fresno, military arts and sciences from Air Command and Staff College, and strategic studies from Air War College.
Van Ovost's military career took flight upon her commissioning from the Air Force Academy in 1988. With a focus on aviation, she attended undergraduate pilot training at Reese Air Force Base, graduating in 1989. Her expertise extends to serving as an instructor pilot for the Test Pilot School, accumulating over 4,200 hours in a diverse array of aircraft.
Throughout her illustrious career, she has held key positions, including Vice Commander of the United States Air Force Expeditionary Center, Deputy Director for Politico-Military Affairs (Europe, NATO, Russia) in the Joint Staff, Vice Director for the Joint Staff, Director of Staff at Headquarters Air Force, and Deputy Commander of Air Mobility Command (AMC).
In a historic moment, Van Ovost assumed command of AMC on August 20, 2020, securing her fourth-star status, making her the only active-duty female four-star general officer in the U.S. military at the time. Following General Lori Robinson, she became the second woman to head a unified combatant command after the Senate approved her nomination to lead USTRANSCOM on October 1, 2021.
USTRANSCOM's mission, under Gen. Van Ovost's leadership, involves projecting and sustaining military power globally, ensuring the security of allies, deterring adversaries, and responding decisively when needed. Her diverse operational and training background, including commanding an air refueling squadron, a flying training wing, and the Presidential Airlift Wing, exemplifies her versatility.
Additionally, her list of accolades includes the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, and Bronze Star Medal. Her exceptional leadership skills and commitment to advancing in the military ranks reflect the values she embodies.
Van Ovost's journey from the U.S. Air Force Academy to becoming the Commander of U.S. Transportation Command showcases her unwavering dedication, outstanding achievements, and groundbreaking contributions to U.S. military leadership.