U.S. Army Garrison - Okinawa Welcomes New CSM

By Mr. Richard L Rzepka (USAG Okinawa)February 25, 2015

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TORII STATION, Okinawa Prefecture -- Soldiers, Families and civilians gathered under blue skies at Torii Beach Feb. 20 to officially welcome and formally recognize Command Sgt. Maj. Kelvin A. Broadnax as U.S. Army Garrison -- Okinawa's senior enlisted adviser.

Broadnax enlisted in the Army in 1988 and has served in every leadership position from supply clerk to sergeant major. He comes to Okinawa from the Logistics Training Department at the U.S. Army Quartermaster School, Fort Lee, Va.

"For the past 26 years, Command Sgt. Maj. Broadnax has served in some of the most challenging assignments in the Army, including two combat tours in Iraq," said Garrison Commander Lt. Col. Eric Martinez. "He has served in Infantry units, aviation, engineering, field artillery and training units," he said.

Martinez said the role of command sergeant major here is critical to the success of the team.

"I know you are up to the challenge … I am very excited to have you as my battle buddy," said Martinez. "I have no doubt in my mind that you are the right man for the job. You are here at the right time and you have the right skills. We welcome you to the Garrison family and to our Army Community."

During his speech, Broadnax said that he is excited to help lead the Army's home on Okinawa and lives to serve.

"Over my years in the Army, I have learned many things but two themes remain at the forefront of my mind as a senior leader -- reciprocity and transparency -- in people and their organizations," said Broadnax. "I believe these are just a couple of attributes which are critical to success, regardless of mission set."

Broadnax is just the third sergeant major of USAG -- Okinawa and said he looks forward to maintaining the high standard of excellence and services that the garrison is known for.

"I will seek to understand situations affecting the garrison and our community by practicing active listening. As members of this great Army team, we should all remember that these two words -- listen and silent -- are spelled with the six same letters," said Broadnax. "I look forward to rolling my sleeves up, being an agent of positive change, and providing relevant and sage counsel to you as we move forward on this journey."