WASHINGTON – U.S. Air Force Maj. Jeffrey Livingston, a native of Marlette, Michigan, is one of more than 800 service members assigned to Joint Task Force-National Capital Region.
JTF-NCR is a joint service command charged with coordinating all military ceremonial support for the 59th Presidential Inauguration. As a joint command, JTF-NCR includes members from all branches of the United States armed forces operating under the auspices of Joint Force Headquarters-National Capital Region.
Livingston has 10 years of military service and served as a military assistant for the inaugural period. Military assistants supported distinguished and significant inaugural participants by facilitating their attendance at official events, including the swearing in ceremony.
He graduated from Marlette High School and attended college at Michigan State University.
Read Livingston’s full interview below to learn more about his military service and how his hometown shaped who he is today:
Q1: Why did you join the military?
A1: I joined the military to serve my country. Being from a small town, I also wanted to see the world and experience different cultures. I wanted to gain valuable life skills and better myself. Ultimately, my desire to protect the Constitution and ensure a safe and free country for my children led me to join the United States Air Force.
Q2: What has been the most rewarding experience of your military career?
A2: Leading diverse groups of people has been extremely rewarding at all levels. One experience that stands out was the opportunity to travel to Germany and work with the special operations field. Being a support officer, it was incredibly rewarding to be a part of such a talented team and to see how different parts of the military operate.
Q3: What achievement(s) outside of the military are you most proud of and why?
A3: I am extremely thankful for the opportunity to have completed my graduate degree. Being the first member of my family to complete a graduate degree, I am incredibly thankful for the sacrifices of my family in helping me achieve my goals.
Q4: Do you have family history of military service?
A4: My great grandfather (infantry) and his two brothers (pilots) all served in WWII. I proudly display my great grandfather’s Purple Heart medal. I also have a grandfather (Army) who served in the tail end of WWII in the Pacific theater and a great uncle (Navy) who served in the Vietnam era.
Q5: How did your hometown (family, friends, etc.) shape who you are today?
A5: My family made incredible sacrifices to ensure I had the opportunities to succeed. My mother and grandmother always instilled in me to work hard and chase my dreams. My hometown was rather small. I had a closeness with my community, being involved in church, sports and community events, all helping shape my desire to serve. I met my wife in high school and she has been an incredible asset in my life. Her sacrifices and support with joining the military have greatly influenced the person I am today.
