BUCKLEY SPACE FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Buckley Space Force Base welcomes a new era of leadership, with the esteemed position passed on to Space Force Col. Heidi Dexter, Space Base Delta 2 commander.
Hailing from San Diego, California, Dexter commissioned as a communications officer in June of 2001 for the Air Force and served a total of 19 years before transitioning into the Space Force in 2021. Throughout her distinguished career, Dexter has encountered and overcome many challenges that have fortified and strengthened her leadership approach.
“I think the mission of what we do and the impact it has on national security motivates me to try and leave the world a better and safer place,” remarked Dexter.
In her free time, Dexter enjoys long-distance running and has earned an extensive collection of medallions that showcase the many different marathons she has participated in throughout her life. Prior to her service in the military, she worked at a movie rental store, which inspired her appreciation for movies. Beyond her diverse set of hobbies, Dexter’s leading focus remains on Buckley SFB’s readiness to fulfill its crucial role in national security.
Dexter envisions a bright future for Buckley SFB, a future that reaches new heights with a laid out comprehensive set of mission priorities. She recognizes the significance of enhancing our allied forces and mission partners, ensuring mission readiness of the base, creating an inclusive environment, and ultimately fostering an environment for Buckley SFB’s success that stands as a testament to the dedication and excellence of every member serving on this installation.
“We can reinforce our mission support by empowering our mission partners that are fighting from this installation and provide robust and resilient communications support to them,” explained Dexter.
During her change of command held on June 15, 2023, Lt. Gen. Stephen Whiting, Space Operations Command commander, expressed the trust he has in Dexter as she assumed command.
“I have every confidence you will carry out your duties with character, connection, commitment, and courage, just as you have done throughout your career,” Whiting said to Dexter.
Following the ceremony, Dexter conveyed her excitement in getting to meet Buckley SFB members and see how they impact the mission with the hard work and dedication the team puts in each day. She also expressed gratitude for not only the service members, but their families as well.
“I am looking forward to meeting everyone and I am appreciative of the work that everyone does, including the families that serve,” said Dexter.