U.S. Special Operations Command Central Celebrates Transfer of Leadership

TAMPA, Fla. — U.S. Special Operations Command Central (SOCCENT) held a change of command ceremony Aug. 14 in Tampa, marking the transfer of leadership from Maj. Gen. Jasper Jeffers to Rear Adm. Thomas Donovan. Lt. Gen. Patrick Frank, deputy commander of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), presided over the ceremony and praised SOCCENT’s accomplishments under Jeffers’ leadership. “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, leading SOCCENT in planning and conducting special operations across CENTCOM’s 21-country area of responsibility in the Middle East, Central Asia, and South Asia. He is now slated to continue serving as commander of the International Stabilization Force supporting the peace plan for Gaza. During his outgoing remarks, Jeffers thanked troops, leaders, and families across the command for their dedication and selfless 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.” SOCCENT’s new commander, Donovan, arrives after leading the Special Reconnaissance and Enabling Command for U.S. Special Operations Command at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa. A Portsmouth, Virginia native, he began his career as a Navy SEAL in 1996 after graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy.