Begert graduated from the United States Air Force Academy in 1968 and served as an instructor and evaluator pilot in C-141 Starlifter, O-2 Skymaster and C-5 Galaxy aircraft early in his career.

In earlier assignments, Begert commanded a flying squadron and two USAF wings.

At Scott AFB, Illinois, he served as chief of staff as well as director of operations and logistics for Headquarters U.S. Transportation Command, and as inspector general for Headquarters Air Mobility Command.

Begert was the first commander of the USAF Air Mobility Warfare Center at McGuire AFB, New Jersey.

Prior to becoming PACAF commander, he was the assistant vice chief of staff for Headquarters USAF, Washington, D.C. Begert retired on August 1, 2004.