HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah -- The 419th Medical Squadron held a change of command ceremony here June 2 as Lt. Col. Charles Needham relinquished command to Lt. Col. David Jackson.
Needham has commanded the 419th MDS since 2014, overseeing the operational health and combat readiness of more than 1,200 Airmen who serve in the 419th Fighter Wing and a squadron of 104 medical specialists.
“Thank you for the opportunity … to serve in the premiere number one fighter wing,” Needham said to an audience of reservists, friends, and family. “It has been my extreme, honorable privilege to witness all that you have accomplished for the wing and the Air Force.”
Prior to assuming command, Jackson was chief of dental services in the 419th MDS. Jackson leads dental officers and enlisted personnel in promoting oral health and ensuring the dental readiness of the 419th FW. The dental flight provides clearance exams, recommends treatment, and trains to ensure their own readiness.
“We have the best crew, more than enough knowledge and capability to get the job done,” Jackson told the women and men of the 419th MDS. “I look forward to working with you.”
When not serving part time in the Air Force Reserve, Jackson runs his own dental practice in the Salt Lake City area.