General Charles Q. Brown Jr.’s journey to becoming the first African-American Chief of Staff of the U.S. Air Force is a testament to his dedication and resilience. His appointment, confirmed by the Senate on June 9, 2020, marked a historic moment amidst significant social change in the United States.
Wiki/Biography
Charles Quinton Brown Jr. was born in 1962 in San Antonio, Texas. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from Texas Tech University in 1984, graduating from the Air Force Reserve Officers Training Corps. His academic pursuits continued with a master’s degree in aeronautical science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in 1994. Throughout his career, he also attended prestigious military schools, including the U.S. Air Force Fighter Weapons School, Squadron Officer School, Air Command and Staff College, Air War College, and the Joint Force Air Component Commander Course.
Further enhancing his leadership skills, he participated in programs such as the Air Force Senior Leadership Course, the Joint Flag Officer Warfighting Course, the Pinnacle Course from the National Defense University, and the Leadership at the Peak program. He also served as a National Defense Fellow at the Institute for Defense Analyses.
Physical Appearance
- Height (approx.): 6’2”
- Hair Color: Bald
- Eye Color: Black
Family & Ethnicity
General Brown hails from an African-American family in San Antonio, Texas. He is married, and his family also resides in San Antonio.
Military Career
Commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1985, General Brown’s career has been marked by exemplary service and progressive leadership roles. He has served in pivotal positions, including Commander of Pacific Air Forces, Air Component Commander for United States Indo-Pacific Command, and Deputy Commander of United States Central Command (CENTCOM). His contributions extended to key roles within the Pacific Air Combat Operations Staff and as Commander Air Forces Central.
His historic appointment as the first African-American Chief of Staff of the United States Air Force was met with widespread recognition and celebration. President Trump publicly lauded General Brown’s appointment and leadership.
Positions Held
General Brown’s extensive career includes a wide range of leadership roles. Here’s a summary of some of his key positions:
| Position | Location | Dates |
|---|---|---|
| F-16 Pilot | 35th Tactical Fighter Squadron, Kunsan Air Base, South Korea | April 1987 – October 1988 |
| F-16 Instructor Pilot | 307th and 308th Tactical Fighter Squadrons, Homestead AFB, Florida | November 1988 – April 1991 |
| Commander | Pacific Air Forces | July 2018 – June 2020 |
| Chief of Staff | United States Air Force | June 2020 – Present |
Promotions
General Brown’s rise through the ranks reflects his exceptional service and capabilities.
- General: July 26, 2018
- Lieutenant General: June 29, 2015
- Major General: July 3, 2013
- Brigadier General: November 20, 2009
- Colonel: June 1, 2005
- Lieutenant Colonel: July 1, 1999
- Major: August 1, 1996
- Captain: February 28, 1989
- First Lieutenant: February 28, 1987
- Second Lieutenant: February 28, 1985
Awards & Decorations
General Brown’s distinguished career has been recognized through numerous awards and decorations.
- Republic of Korea Order of National Security Merit (Samil Medal)
- NATO Medal
- Nuclear Deterrence Operations Service Medal
- Legion of Merit with three oak leaf clusters
- Defense Distinguished Service Medal with oak leaf cluster
Facts/Trivia
General Brown’s appointment as Chief of Staff was not only historic but also noteworthy for the unanimous Senate vote (98-0) confirming his position. He openly discussed his experiences with racism, underscoring the significance of his achievement.
A highly accomplished pilot, General Brown has logged over 2,900 flight hours, including 130 combat hours. He has flown a variety of aircraft, including the F-16A/B/C/D and other fixed and rotary-wing aircraft. He’s also the author of “Developing Doctrine for the Future Joint Force: Creating Synergy and Minimizing Seams,” published by Air University Press.
