SCHWEINFURT, Germany- As closure 2014 nears and changes throughout the garrison become more evident, the garrison and community here welcome a familiar face as the new garrison command sergeant major.
In a change of responsibility ceremony held June 4 on Conn Barracks, Command Sgt. Major Eric Gordon passed the responsibility of U.S. Army Garrison Schweinfurt command sergeant major to Sgt. Maj. Thao Kamakahi- Watson, in a traditional sword exchange between non-commissioned officers.
The time honored tradition signifies the relinquishment of responsibility and authority from the outgoing command sergeant major to the incoming. The sword represents the "cutting edge" of professionalism and the living spirit of the organization and its mission.
Command Sgt. Maj. Gordon has spent the last three years as the command sergeant major of USAG Schweinfurt. He assumed the role Sept. 17, 2010.
"Together with Col. Runey, Command Sgt. Maj. Gordon transformed the community. The Schweinfurt command team has set the example for team cohesiveness and honest caring for one another," said Col. Kelly Lawler, Franconia Military Community commander, in opening remarks delivered at the ceremony.
Being a part of the growth in Schweinfurt has been one of Command Sgt. Maj. Gordon's personal achievements while in command.
"Friendships, great memories and a community that cares -- that's what I want to leave the people of Schweinfurt with," Gordon said.
Kamakahi-Watson, who was stationed in Germany earlier in her career, returned to Schweinfurt in January 2012, with her husband Command Sgt. Maj. Stephfon Watson of 7th TTSB and their two sons. For the last year and a half she has served as the garrison's operations sergeant major, supporting daily operations with particular focus on the movement of troops in and out of Schweinfurt.
Sgt. Maj. Kamakahi-Watson's education includes a Bachelor of Science degree in Management from the University of Maryland and a Master of Arts degree in Information Technology System Management from Trident University International.
Sgt. Maj. Kamakahi-Watson's major task will be in taking Schweinfurt to closure, and ensuring Soldiers and families safely and successfully transition from Schweinfurt to their next duty stations.
"I will give my 100 percent and I can guarantee that everyone will always be informed," she said.
Command Sgt. Maj. Gordon will retire to Atlanta with his wife. He is still unsure what the future holds, but isn't worried.
"I'm confident, God has led me to this path so far and He will continue to do so."
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