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U.S. Special Operations Command Central transferred leadership from Maj. Gen. Jasper Jeffers to Rear Adm. Thomas Donovan during an Aug. 14 change of command ceremony in Tampa.
Lt. Gen. Patrick Frank, deputy commander of U.S. Central Command, presided over the ceremony and praised SOCCENT’s accomplishments under Jeffers.
“During his 25 months in command, Maj. Gen. Jeffers has led with great dedication and courage as a forward-thinking and innovative leader,” Frank said. “His accomplishments will have a lasting impact.”
Jeffers assumed command in June 2024 and led the planning and conduct of special operations across CENTCOM’s 21-country area of responsibility in the Middle East, Central Asia and South Asia. He is slated to continue serving as commander of the International Stabilization Force supporting the peace plan for Gaza.
In his outgoing remarks, Jeffers thanked troops, leaders and families across the command for their dedication and service.
“If I have to use an emotion to describe what I feel today, it is gratitude,” Jeffers said. “These ceremonies aren’t about the command; they are about the people. You all are being and representing the best in America. SOCCENT, thank you. It’s been an honor to serve with you.”
Donovan most recently led the Special Reconnaissance and Enabling Command for U.S. Special Operations Command at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa. The Portsmouth, Virginia, native began his career as a Navy SEAL in 1996 after graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy.
