FORT DETRICK, Maryland -- In many traditions, the rainbow is a symbol of a potential reward following the dedicated pursuit of a vision. It was fitting, then, to see a rainbow over the skies of Fort Detrick in the early hours of Sept. 16--the date of the change of command ceremony at the U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command and Fort Detrick.
By the start of the ceremony any lingering rain drops were replaced with a cloudless sky and an occasionally gusty breeze. The units assembled in formation, and the dignitaries and guests took their seats as Maj. Gen. Joseph Caravalho, Jr., relinquished command to Maj. Gen. Brian C. Lein.
A change of command signifies a transfer of trust to continually uphold and pursue the mission and vision of the command.
The presiding officer of the ceremony, Army Surgeon General and Commander of the U.S. Army Medical Command Lt. Gen. Patricia D. Horoho, noted the steadfast conviction she holds for both Caravalho and Lein, referring to them as, "two of the most respected leaders in Army medicine."
In her remarks, Horoho thanked Caravalho for his brilliant leadership through trying times; his tireless efforts to reinvigorate and maintain partnerships both throughout the services and among local, state and congressional leaders; and for utilizing his experience and expertise to enhance the future of Army medicine. She added that the work the command executes is more significant today than ever before.
Assuring that the USAMRMC is in excellent hands, Horoho cited Lein's charismatic leadership and management skills, reinforcing her confidence that he would continue to take the USAMRMC to the next level in fulfillment of its mission.
Caravalho's remarks were characteristically humorous, as he thanked the command and its leadership for their unwavering dedication and continued commitment to Army medicine. He reiterated Horoho's confidence in Lein, in the future of the USAMRMC and in Army medicine.
"From brain health to arm transplantations to freeze dried plasma, the researchers of the USAMRMC have left no stone unturned and have put this command one step away from global health," said Caravalho.
Referring to the rainbow spotted earlier in the day, Caravalho likened Frederick to the pot of gold at the end of the 270 corridor and stated he and his family "would forever carry fond memories of this command, installation and the City of Frederick."
"Today marks the ending of one chapter and the beginning of another," said Caravalho. "This chapter has officially ended and I know we are all looking forward to what the next chapter holds in what I hope continues to be a very exciting story."
As Lein took to the podium, he thanked his family first and foremost for their ongoing support. He also thanked the Soldiers -- not only those standing before him on the parade field, but also those deployed on behalf of our Nation.
Lein's eagerness to continue the pursuit of the USAMRMC mission in his new role as commanding general was apparent as he cited the significance of the ongoing efforts of the USAMRMC in support of infectious and chemical disease research, Soldier performance and well-being.
Lein grew up in New York and attended the United States Military Academy. He graduated as a Distinguished Military Cadet with a Bachelor of Science, and was commissioned a second lieutenant in the Medical Service Corps. He then attended Temple University School of Medicine in Philadelphia. He graduated as an Alpha Omega Alpha Scholar with an M.D. degree. He completed his internship in general surgery at Madigan Army Medical Center and his residency in general surgery at Abington Memorial Hospital. He is board certified in general surgery.
His military education includes graduation from the Army Medical Department Officer Basic and Advanced Courses, the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College, the U.S. Army War College and the U.S. Army Airborne School.
His awards and decorations include the Legion of Merit with two oak leaf clusters, the Bronze Star Medal, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal with two OLC, the Army Commendation Medal with two OLC, the Joint Service Achievement Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal and Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, an Overseas Ribbon, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Medal, the Army Parachutist Badge, the Joint Superior Unit Award, the Army Superior Unit Award, the Order of Military Medical Merit and the German Sports Badge (Gold).
"While the USAMRMC is already a regionally aligned and globally committed force, we must fundamentally change the way we look at ourselves and our Soldiers in terms of human performance," said Lein. "We must realign our capabilities in order to ensure a more resilient force, better survivability from battlefield injuries and an Army that is even lighter, stronger and more autonomous than they are today. We at the United States Army Medical Research and Materiel Command accept this challenge."
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