REDSTONE ARSENAL, Alabama -- When a new operations officer takes over, the style may change but all things necessary to operate and accomplish the mission continues.
Col. Charles E. Branson, deputy chief of staff G-3, U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command/Army Forces Strategic Command, began his new role as the command's operations officer July 28 coordinating current operations, plans, exercises and training, as well as day-to-day deployment operations security and force protection for the command.
"My responsibilities include oversight of all things operational here at SMDC. Additionally, the G3 must ensure the prioritization of funding for the combat capabilities available to the commander." Branson said. "SMDC is a multi-level, bifurcated organization with a split headquarters and comprising strategic, operational and tactical elements. I enjoy the fact it is not only a missile defense outfit like I'm used to, but also incorporates space operations. Lastly, it is refreshing to have smart, professional civilians supporting the operation. Up to this point, I have been exposed mostly to military organizations at the operational and tactical levels and below. I think this is a good opportunity to expand the aperture of my professional development.
Branson said he is appreciative of the team here at USASMDC/ARSTRAT who has welcomed him in and allowed him to assume the numerous responsibilities the office entails.
"I know that the learning curve will be steep, but I am ready for the challenge," he said. "I'm glad to be here and I look forward to serving with such a storied outfit."
Branson enlisted in the Army in 1986 and joined the Reserve Officers' Training Corps program at Lincoln University in Jefferson City, Missouri, in 1989. He graduated in 1993 with a degree in biology and was commissioned a second lieutenant in the Army's Air Defense Artillery branch.
"I think that every deployment, training exercise, and every success and failure to this point in my career comprises the canvas of experiences that has prepared me for today," Branson said, reflecting upon past experiences being the "shaping operations" which prepared him for now -- both good and bad.
"As you move up in an organization and responsibilities grow, your span of influence expands as well," he added. "This is another opportunity to serve at a much higher and difficult level of responsibility. The Army is something I love to do and I look forward to this latest challenge."
When asked of his favorite duty station, Branson immediately responded about his time as a "Dog-Faced Soldier" in the 3rd Infantry Division at Fort Stewart, Georgia.
"I reported there as second lieutenant wide-open and full of vibrant energy," Branson said. "I loved being a Bradley M6 Linebacker platoon leader, working with all the other air defense systems and everything about the area -- the sand gnats, humidity and all. I loved motor pool Monday, smelling the diesel fuel and climbing all over the vehicles, and I still call the area home today."
He also had some advice for young Soldiers and officers who are beginning their Army career and what they can learn from leaders they serve with.
"I would offer them to search and pursue any opportunities for education and training," Branson said. "I would also say don't be afraid to fail. People can see failures as an impediment, but I think the failures in your life allow you to internalize and really learn from them. Success is never certain, and failure is not always fatal. Failures are the events that truly allow the realization of both personal and professional growth."
Branson took a moment and talked about the person who was the biggest influence on his life and helped mold the man he has become.
"I lost my dad when I was 10 years old," he said. "In those 10 years, we spent a huge amount of time together. I was blessed to watch a good man awaken every morning, work hard and raise a strong family. I know he is in a better place, and that God blessed the personal moments we enjoyed together. I truly hope that he would be proud of the person, husband and Soldier I have become."
Branson also mentioned that besides work, he is a rabid sports fan, and loves the San Francisco 49ers, the Los Angeles Lakers and the St. Louis baseball Cardinals. He has been married for 29 years to his high school prom date, Karen McNary Branson.
"When I'm away from the office I enjoy travel with the missus, and I love, love, love to golf," Branson said. "I am a horrible golfer but enjoy it. I also love reading, flag football, intramural basketball, softball and anything else that involves a ball."
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