CAMP HUMPHREYS, Korea -- Command Sgt. Maj. Matthew D. McCoy relinquished responsibility as the Humphreys Garrison command sergeant major during a brief ceremony here on Jan. 7.
McCoy served at Humphreys for the last 18 months; his next assignment is as the command sergeant major of the U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Command, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland.
Humphreys Garrison commander Col. Joseph C. Holland praised McCoy's leadership skills and focus during a time of great change for the garrison.
"Command Sgt. Maj. McCoy, this is your special day but it's also our special day to reflect and remember what you've contributed as a patriot, leader, husband and father at our outpost very-near the edge of freedom," Holland said. "You've delivered competently and capably for (former garrison commander) Col. Conkright and myself but, more importantly, for the community here at Camp Humphreys and Area III."
Holland cited McCoy's wife Karen for her dedication to children at the Humphreys Child Development Center.
"Karen, thank you for all the hours you spent nurturing hundreds of children at our Child Development Center. There are kids across our Army who will grow into great Americans because of your care for them," he said.
Holland offered parting thoughts for McCoy.
"Command Sgt. Maj. McCoy as you leave our little but growing outpost here, we know you'll do well because you'll continue to be a great patriot, leader, husband and friend you've been through your career."
McCoy said the ceremony, like any that signifies transition, was bittersweet.
"While I haven't had time to reflect on the last 18 months, there will come a moment when I do," he said.
McCoy said before he came to Camp Humphreys he had never served with Installation Management Command, nearly all of his career, especially his recent assignments, were in rapid-response airborne and special operations units.
"After serving for just a short time in IMCOM I now have a greater appreciation for city managers across our nation for running any sized city is no small feat," McCoy said. "Doing this outside the continental United States, within a very-unstable global region, all the while undergoing transformation…the efforts of the area garrison command team here and on the peninsula have been nothing short of amazing."
McCoy said he's worked with many fine leaders and staffs during his time at Humphreys.
"I've witnessed some of the most-professional and adaptive leaders and staffs, working behind the scenes selflessly serving the needs of our community and Army," he said.
McCoy praised our Korean partners, citing their national pride, unmatched service and commitment to the ROK-U.S. alliance.
"I've witness first-hand what a true partnership looks like and know that we mean it when we say 'We go together,'" he said.
Turning to the Soldiers and noncommissioned officers in formation in front of him, McCoy praised them for their professionalism and asked that they support the new garrison command sergeant major as they had him.
"Some may question the value of this event but I've seen the value in events such as this. It was planned, led and executed by noncommissioned officers," he said. "This event shows the complete trust in the NCO Corps, it validates our corps as a profession of arms and allows the noncommissioned officers to remain one of the key elements that make our Army and our forces strong."
McCoy thanked Holland for his mentorship, confidence and support.
"Col. Joe Holland has always made me feel I was a valuable member of this command team; I wholeheartedly thank you for having trust in me," McCoy said. "Your candid guidance made me a better leader and man."
McCoy closed with thanks to his family for their love and support, noting that this day was also he and his wife's 21st wedding anniversary.
"While we could never know what life had in store for us we have come a long way together…Happy Anniversary and I love you more with each passing day. Thank you for your love and support.
"To the kids, I know that you have experienced hardships throughout our many transitions. Please know this, your mother and I have always had your best interests in mind," he said. "You have already seen that you've experienced more of life than some will ever know," he said. "Thank you for your continuing support and love."
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