The American flag waved smartly at the assumption of responsibility for USAG Benelux's new command sergeant major during an outdoor ceremony on Caserne Daumerie in Chièvres June 17.
During the ceremony, Command Sgt. Maj. William L. Majors became the garrison's senior enlisted adviser.
A free-flowing flag makes a statement, Majors said.
"No doubt the wind is blowing for a reason because I did not want those colors lying down," said Majors, who comes to the Benelux from the 421st Multifunctional Medical Battalion in Baumholder, Germany, where he was the command sergeant major.
Garrison commander Col. Marty Vannatter drew parallels between Williams, who has been a Soldier for 28 years, and himself.
"We are both seasoned Soldiers," Vannatter said, stressing the unique relationship between a commander and his senior enlisted adviser because they end up spending more time together than with their families. "I expect our relationship to be based on trust and shared Army values."
The strong relationship between the commander and his trusted adviser is the framework for the command as a whole.
"I look forward to having you by my side, maintaining the strong command team our community deserves," Vannatter said. "You will find that the Benelux is a small but complex community that has an extensive and critical commitment to support NATO."
Vannatter said Majors and his family have come to a community where they will find friends in the Belgian and Dutch citizens who haven't forgotten the sacrifices that Americans made during two world wars.
With support from these friends and allies, USAG Benelux helps maintain a Strong Europe, he said.
Majors expressed his dedication to supporting USAG Benelux's three Lines of Effort: People, Service and Facilities.
"I'm excited about the opportunity given to me," Majors said, adding, "We're ready to get started."
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