JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS, Va. –
Flap your wings, do a squat, straighten your knees, then put it all together.
Those were the dance instructions featured in a school project inspired by “JB”, the official mascot of Joint Base Langley-Eustis. In just a few months, the bald eagle mascot has soared into the heart of base culture; boosting morale, connecting with the community, and reinforcing the joint mission of Airmen and Soldiers.
Short for joint base, JB was created to unify both sides of the installation and serve as a recognizable symbol of the team behind the mission. Since his debut, JB has become a fixture at commander’s calls, school visits, and public events, often met with cheers, smiles, and the occasional “JB Dance.”
“Chief Kolcun and I started our time at JBLE focused on building culture and connection across the joint base, so creating a unifying identity like JB was a perfect fit,” said Col. Matthew Altman, former JBLE installation commander. “He brings people together across ranks, services, and generations.”
The concept of a military mascot isn’t new. From unit animals in World War I trenches to service academy icons like the U. S. Army Mules and the U.S. Air Force Falcons, mascots have long played a role in boosting esprit de corps. JB continues that tradition, serving as a living emblem of teamwork, pride and purpose.
To create JB, the 633d Air Base Wing Public Affairs office launched a mascot design contest with local elementary schools. More than 100 students submitted entries, with many choosing eagles, a bird closely associated with American strength and commonly seen flying on both installations. The final design was intentionally made to be friendly, energetic, and approachable.
“We wanted a mascot people could connect with,” said Chief Master Sgt. David Kolcun, 633d ABW command chief. “The eagle ties into our national symbol, but JB also reflects the spirit of JBLE; mission-focused and people-first.”
The presence of JB serves more than just entertainment. As a visual representative of the installation, he reinforces base identity during outreach events, helps promote command messages in an accessible way, and energizes team building across military and civilian audiences.
“JB represents unity, pride, and the people who make JBLE a team,” said Kolcun. “He’s more than a costume; he’s a connection point.”
Altman hopes JB remains a lasting figure across both Langley and Eustis, woven into the base’s milestones, celebrations and community engagements for years to come.
“You can’t be around JB without feeling a little more motivated,” said Altman. “That spirit is part of what makes our joint team strong and will connect with the next generation of Soldiers and Airmen.”