KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- U.S. Air Force Col. William Parker IV assumed command of the 81st Mission Support Group from Col. Jayson Cabell during a change of command ceremony, officiated by Col. Christopher Robinson, 81st Training Wing commander, at the Bay Breeze Event Center on July 16, 2026.
Cabell commanded the 81st MSG since July 2024. During his tenure, he organized base combat support, logistics and service activities for 114,000 service members, civilians, dependents and retirees by leading over 1,650 personnel. While giving remarks, Robinson expressed appreciation for what Cabell has done for the group.
“This base has seen remarkable progress under Col. Cabell’s leadership,” said Robinson. “His commitment to excellence is truly reflected in the modernization efforts happening around the installation and the support provided to our Airmen and their families.”
Parker brings more than 20 years of experience in tactical, operational support, command and staff positions to his new role at Keesler.
By leading the 81st MSG, he’ll be essential in advancing the unit’s mission of providing proactive and responsive service to base customers.
“The opportunity to command here is a privilege and an honor that I’m excited to have,” said Parker. “Having served in a combatant command and utilized Airmen operating in joint environments, I recognize how vital Keesler's mission is to our national defense and in developing the skillsets of our warriors early in their careers.”
Previously, Parker operated at Camp Humphrey, South Korea as the United States Forces Korea J1 assistant chief of staff, tasked with leading a joint team of 37 responsible to the USFK commander for all manpower, personnel and quality of life policies and programs for over 48,000 personnel and their families. He was also the United Nations Command U1 assistant chief of staff and DC1 deputy assistant chief of staff.
After commissioning in 2003 through the Air Force ROTC program at Evangel University in Springfield, Missouri, Parker led the 21st Force Support Squadron at Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado and commanded the 407th Expeditionary Services Squadron at Ali Air Base, Iraq. Following graduation from the Air Force Institute of Technology civilian institution program, Parker began filling staff roles at Headquarters Air Force, including operating as the Air Force Fitness and Lodging Policy chief and Air Force Directorate of Services executive officer. Further in his career, he commanded the 628th Force Support Squadron and remained on station to act as the deputy commander for the 628th Mission Support Group at Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina.
The 81st MSG oversees six squadrons including the 81st Security Forces Squadron and 81st Force Support Squadron to provide administrative, civil engineering, transportation, recreational, communications, supply and base security operations to support approximately 75,000 people utilizing base facilities. The group also fosters collaboration between Keesler and the local community through various projects, including the Mississippi Cyber and Technology Center with Mississippi State University to build long lasting partnerships.
Parker explained that mission readiness doesn’t stop at technical training and fitness, as Keesler’s base infrastructure is critical for not only supporting daily operations but also projecting power at home and abroad.
With his experience, the group strengthens its dedication to installation excellence through improving quality of life on base and enhancing infrastructure for the betterment of Keesler and its populace.