First Army welcomes new headquarters staff commander

By Mr. Darryl Howlett (FORSCOM)January 22, 2015

First Army HHD Ceremony
1 / 4 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Members of the official party stand with 1st Sgt. Michael Bernard of
First Army's Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment on Jan. 20 in First
Army headquarters. To Bernard's left are: Capt. Joseph Pauley; First Army
Commanding General, Lt. Gen. Mich... (Photo Credit: U.S. Army)
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Capt. Pauley
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Capt. Sudbeck
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First Army Commander
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ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL, Ill. -- First Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Michael S. Tucker welcomed one outstanding officer while saying goodbye to another during the First Army's Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment change of command ceremony on Jan. 20.

Capt. Jeff R. Sudbeck replaced Capt. Joseph C. Pauley, who served as HHD commander for the past 18 months. Sudbeck served as aide-de-camp for several First Army deputy commanding generals since June 2013, prior to assuming command of HHD.

"A change of command is a special and symbolic tradition -- passing the colors from one leader to another -- symbolizing the passing of responsibility for and welfare of Soldiers from one leader -- to another," Tucker said.

HHD commanders ensure numerous administrative tasks and physical training requirements are met for 130 plus Soldiers assigned to First Army.

Tucker praised Pauley for his leadership and ability to create a family friendly environment through First Army's Family Readiness Group.

"It's unique that we had some serious 'home grown' talent in charge of HHD all this time," Tucker said.

Tucker emphasized that Pauley was born and raised right here in the Quad Cities and is also a graduate of Western Illinois University.

"Who says 'you can never go home again? Joe, I'm confident all your family and friends in attendance here are thrilled to see a real-life example of 'a hometown boy makes good.'" Tucker said.

"Captain Pauley was instrumental in energizing the Family Readiness Group to gain significant support from our spouses, and he executed many fun team-building and family-oriented events to help solidify First Army's 'family-focus."

Pauley's girlfriend, Kaylee Heron, served as the FRG leader during his command tour.

Pauley thanked his family and fellow First Army family for a successful homecoming.

"I've been blessed with the time coming home. I've cherished it," he said. "The Quad Cities is a great area and you won't find a more pro-military (community)."

Tucker said he has equal confidence in the leadership abilities of Sudbeck, a South Dakota native.

"Everything about his military experience and career demonstrates that Capt. Sudbeck is the right Soldier and leader to assume responsibility for the care and welfare of our Soldiers in First Army headquarters," he said. "Jeff, I have every confidence in your abilities as you take the reins of HHD."

Capt. Sudbeck thanked Tucker for the opportunity to lead the HHD.

"I'm looking forward to this opportunity, sir." Sudbeck said.