Air Vice-Marshal Michael Kitcher is the new Deputy Chief Joint Operations (DCJOPS) at Headquarters Joint Operations Command (HQJOC).
Coming into the role after a United States exchange posting with Central Command, AVM Kitcher is responsible for assisting Chief Joint Operations (CJOPS) with the command of ADF joint operations, directing command units and assigned forces in the planning and conduct of campaigns, operations, joint exercises and other activities.
At a change-of-command ceremony on August 12, outgoing DCJOPS Rear Admiral Jaimie Hatcher paid tribute to the personnel at HQJOC, recognising their loyal and dedicated service.
“To the staff at JOC – all of you – sailors, soldiers, aviators, public servants and our contractors, what a fantastic team,” RADM Hatcher said.
“The past two years has not just been busy – it has been constant - day, night, weekday, weekend, global, regional and especially domestic. I am inspired by you all; your commitment, your professionalism, your humanity and stamina.”
RADM Hatcher retires from full-time service after more than 35 years, which began as a midshipman at the Australian Defence Force Academy.
During his career, RADM Hatcher deployed on operational service five times, including on Operation Damask I for the liberation of Kuwait, Gulf War I in 1990-91, as the Commanding Officer of HMAS Toowoomba in 2006-2007 and as Commander Joint Task Force 633 in 2018.