Bluto takes command of security forces

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Curtis J. Lenz
  • 157th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
Maj. Jassen L. Bluto accepted command of the 157th Security Forces Squadron during a change of command ceremony at Building 254, Pease Air National Guard Base, N.H., Oct. 3, 2014.

Maj. Kenneth Leedberg, who transferred to a new role in the wing's Inspector General Office, relinquished command of the squadron to Bluto. With the change in leadership, the squadron is transitioning from a full-time commander to a traditional part-time commander.

As a traditional commander Bluto faces unique personal and professional challenges such as communications challenges with his staff and managing time with his family, work, and a master's program.

Because of this, Bluto said he is "still trying to balance and spin all those plates."
He added that he has a capable staff that he believes in.

"I'm a big believer that if you empower your people and trust them then they are going to do a good job," the new commander said. "The team we have here in security forces is pretty amazing."

Bluto hales from the South Burlington, Vt. where he graduated from high school in 1989. He went on to graduate with a dual major in Psychology and Sociology from Trinity College. He is currently working on a master's degree in Christian Apologetics from Biola University in California.

Bluto works in spiritual fitness for Cru Military, a Christian ministry. He is assigned to Valor a ministry at Norwich University in Vermont.

Bluto comes from a military family. His father served four years on active duty in the Navy during Vietnam War and retired as a senior master sergeant after 29 years from the Vermont Air National Guard in Burlington, Vt.

"My father was a great influence on me growing up," he said. "Seeing him serve in uniform left an impression on me to follow in his footsteps."

When asked about his vision, Bluto said he uses an acronym called BASE. According to Bluto, much of this is based on Air Force Instruction 36-2618, The Enlisted Force Structure.

"BASE is our foundation but it also describes what we're going to do, were going to 'build' leadership, we're going to be 'adaptable,' I encourage Airmen to attend 'school' - such as civilian education and complete their professional military 'education.'" 

The major now resides in Northfield, Vt. with his wife of 20 years, Nicole, and three children; Isaac, 14; Nathan, 7; and daughter Regan, 5.

"It's an accomplishment in an officer's career when you are entrusted to command an organization, especially one as important as Security Forces," he said.

Bluto concluded by recognizing that the responsibility is great, but he's ready for the challenge and looks forward to continuing the strong legacy of the squadron's former commander, Maj. Leedberg.