US Transportation Command welcomes new deputy commander

SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill — U.S. Transportation Command’s new deputy commander, Army Lt. Gen. Jered Helwig, took the oath of office after pinning on a third star during his promotion ceremony today. 

Helwig officially assumed responsibilities as USTRANSCOM’s deputy commander July 10. 

USTRANSCOM Commander Air Force Gen. Jacqueline Van Ovost presided over the ceremony, joined by Commander of Air Mobility Command Air Force Gen. Mike Minihan, who administered the oath of office.

Prior to his current assignment, Helwig served as the commanding general of 8th Theater Sustainment Command in Fort Shafter, Hawaii, where he drove U.S. Army Pacific efforts to increase integration with allies and partners.

During her opening remarks, Van Ovost said Helwig’s promotion and appointment by the president to be USTRANSCOM’s newest deputy “is a clear indication” that his leadership is “valued and needed at the highest levels of the Army and joint force.”

“He [was] the absolute best choice to assume the mantle of deputy commander for USTRANSCOM,” Van Ovost said. “His understanding of the geography, modes and nodes of transportation, and the initiatives inside [the Indo-Pacific theater] will be instrumental to helping prepare this command for the future.”

Helwig received his commission in 1994 after graduating from Wheaton College and has since commanded at every echelon. He has also supported multiple operations throughout his career, including operations Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, Iraqi Freedom in Iraq, Joint Guard in Bosnia and Uphold Democracy in Haiti.

“It’s a huge honor and privilege to join [USTRANSCOM],” Helwig said, “and to work with all of you to support our nation and the service members who are out there working tirelessly in this most consequential time.

“Let’s get after it together,” he continued, “because together, we deliver.”