Incoming commander takes reins of garrison

By Karin J. Martinez, VMC Public Affairs OfficeJuly 21, 2017

Col. Erik M. Berdy assumes command of USAG Italy
Col. Erik M. Berdy accepts the garrison colors from Mr. Michael D. Formica, Regional Director of Installation Management Command - Europe, during the Change of Command ceremony held on Caserma Ederle, Italy. The passing of the Unit Colors signifies t... (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

VICENZA, Italy -- Members of the Vicenza and Darby military communities, special guests, and family and friends gathered here July 21 to bid farewell to the outgoing commander and welcome a new leader in the United States Army Garrison Italy change of command ceremony at Hoekstra Field.

After serving in Italy for two years, Col. Steve Marks relinquished command of the garrison to Col. Erik Berdy, who comes to Vicenza from the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., where he served as division chief for Strategy, Plans and Policy on the Joint Transregional Threats Coordination Staff.

The ceremony was marked with not only a big welcome to the Berdy family, but also a touch of sadness at Marks' departure, beginning with a farewell to the commander from Installation Base Commander, Italian army Col. Umberto D'Andria.

"I know it might be unusual for a foreign officer to speak at an American ceremony," began D'Andria. "This 'unusual' event is explained by something just as unusual and exceptional, which is Col. Marks' accomplishments during his two-year command.

"On behalf of all the Italians who work here, whom I represent today, I would like to extend … a deep and sincere thanks. Thank you for being always and honestly interested and attentive to our culture and our places. … At times, commanders doubt about their accomplishments' effectiveness. Steve, I do not know if you have ever had those doubts. If so, I am here to dispel them. Have no doubts. We are aware of how much you accomplished, and we greatly appreciate it."

In the 2015 ceremony when Marks took the reins of the garrison, he said, "I promise that I will do all that I can to ensure this garrison remains ready to provide support and services to our communities, enabling mission readiness and enhancing quality of life." He leaves here having accomplished the mission, said Michael D. Formica, region director of Installation Management Command Europe, as he praised Marks' accomplishments and service.

"I speak for everyone here," said Formica to the outgoing commander and his wife, Myra. "Thank you for everything that you provided to this tight-knit community. USAG Italy is a better place to live, work and play because of (your) dedication."

Formica also gave a warm welcome to Berdy and his family.

"Erik brings with him a wealth of tactical and strategic experience," Formica said. "He is a deep thinker, as well as a proven leader who knows that quick decisions are often needed in battle. Both traits will make him a successful garrison commander."

The outgoing commander shared a few thoughts as he prepares to depart. He began with remarks spoken in Italian specifically for host nation guests and then continued in English with a special message for the garrison team.

"To my remarkable team of Army and Italian professionals: For two years, I've drawn from your energy and tried to reflect back what you displayed every day -- heart, and character, firm with your values," said Marks. "Even when times got tough and frustrating, you never let it get to you. The only thing that makes me prouder than all the good we've done is the thought of all the remarkable things you'll achieve from here. … It has been the honor of my life to serve you."

Marks leaves Italy for Fort Bragg, N.C., where he will serve as Joint Special Operations Command J5.

Berdy said he is happy to be back in Italy and ready for the challenge of taking on the responsibility of leading USAG Italy.

The new commander is an infantry officer and graduate of the U.S. Military Academy. He has deployed to Haiti, Bosnia, Kuwait and Iraq. He also deployed to Afghanistan as a "Sky Soldier" with 173rd Airborne Brigade. He comes to Italy with his wife, Kelli, and their two daughters, Mikayla and Gabriella.

Related Links:

USAG Italy Facebook page

USAG Italy webpage

Related Links:

USAG Italy Facebook page

USAG Italy webpage

Related Links:

USAG Italy Facebook page

USAG Italy webpage