501st Military Intelligence Brigade welcomes new senior enlisted leader

By Story by Staff Sgt. Reshema G. SherlockFebruary 11, 2016

501st Military Intelligence Brigade welcomes new senior enlisted leader
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501st Military Intelligence Brigade welcomes new senior enlisted leader
2 / 4 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Command Sgt. Maj. Julie A. Guerra, center, symbolically receives the responsibility and noncommissioned officers' sword from Col. Kris A. Arnold, left, commander, 501st Military Intelligence Brigade, during the brigade's change of responsibility cere... (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL
501st Military Intelligence Brigade welcomes new senior enlisted leader
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501st Military Intelligence Brigade welcomes new senior enlisted leader
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During the ceremony, Command Sgt. Maj. Julie A. Guerra, a native of Tucson, Ariz., assumed responsibility as the brigade's senior enlisted leader from the outgoing command sergeant major, Command Sgt. Maj. Marc A. Gianotti.

Gianotti, a Syracuse, N.Y. native, and former member of the United States Army Great Skills Program, has served in various leadership positions to include Infantry Team and Squad Leader, Platoon Sergeant, First Sergeant, Battalion Sergeant Major, Battalion Operations Sergeant, and Brigade Operations sergeant major.

"Although I did not have as much time and altitude as I would have liked, I am extremely thankful for having had the opportunity to call myself, Red Dragon 7," said Gianotti.

Prior to his current position as the Brigade's senior enlisted leader, Gianotti served as the 3rd Military Intelligence Battalion, command sergeant major. His deployments include Operations Desert Shield/Storm/Fox, Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, and numerous operational missions.

"I have spoken many times about what I consider the three ships essential to success in life, and the Army -- Followership, Leadership, and Mentorship. Sir, you reminded me that there is a fourth that I overlooked; Friendship," said Gianotti.

"Ready to "Fight tonight" is not a motto here, it is a creed and it makes our foe tremble," said Gianotti. "I will miss serving with such a tight knit team, and our great allies."

Upon relinquishment of his responsibilities, Gianotti will assume responsibility of the 704th Military Intelligence brigade, at Fort Meade, Md.

Col. Kris A. Arnold, commander of the 501st Military Intelligence Brigade, presided over the ceremony, and recognized Gianotti for his honor and unwavering leadership to the brigade.

"When command sergeants majors speak, it is not only experience and expertise that you hear -- but it is wisdom," said Arnold.

"Command Sgt. Maj. Gianotti, we are a great organization, because you were in it -- you have made a difference to every Soldier in this brigade, including me," said Arnold.

Arnold mentioned his time spent with Gianotti, and commended him on the tremendous impact he has had on the brigade. From improving readiness, to developing the best SHARP campaigns on the Peninsula, as well as the reinforcement of discipline throughout the ranks.

"So, as we say goodbye to one seasoned warrior, we also welcome another. Command Sgt. Maj. Guerra, you are no stranger to Korea, or to the brigade. We are very fortunate to have such a proven leader to be our next brigade command sergeant major," said Arnold.

Guerra, who is no stranger to the brigade, has served in numerous leadership positions as well. Her assignments include Drill Sergeant, First Sergeant, Rear Detachment Command Sergeant Major, and Operations Sergeant Major.

"Twenty one years ago, last month, I reported to this fine brigade right out of Advanced Individual Training as my first assignment," said Guerra. "I am truly humbled to have been chosen to lead alongside Col. Arnold, and its command sergeant's majors today."

Guerra's overseas assignments include Korea, deployments as part of the Implementation Force, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and deployments to Bosnia and Herzegovina.

"I look forward to this opportunity to serve the brigade, and the Alliance team," said Guerra.