The 3rd Medical Command Deployment Support-Forward welcomed a new commander at a change of command ceremony that was held at Zone 1 gym on Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, Aug 5.
Col. Mark P. McGuire assumed command of 3rd MDSC OCP from Col. Eric Radford who took over command in July 2008. Lt. Gen. William G. Webster, commander, Third Army was the guest speaker at the event.
"We're proud to have you on the team and we look forward to working with you this next couple of years," said Webster to McGuire. "Nothing is impossible when you have a team like this in support. Maintaining our focus on the mission, training and preparing our Soldiers and their Families for what they have to do and continuing to work as a team is how we will continue to accomplish the mission before us."
Radford spoke after Webster giving thanks to those who were a part of his command.
"The bottom line is; a reputation is made in a moment, but character is built in a lifetime, thank you all," said Radford.
Radford was recognized by Webster, who has served with him in the past, for his hard work and quick turnaround on the detection and prevention of H1N1 influenza in theater. It will now be up to McGuire to continue that fight as the new commander for the 3rd MDSC OCP.
McGuire is assuming command of MDSC OCP after serving in Baghdad 2006-2007.
He was in a private optometric practice in North Carolina for over 16 years. Currently, he is the chief of Optometry for Central Alabama Health Care System with clinics in Montgomery, Fort Rucker and Tuskegee, Ala.
His awards and decorations include two Bronze Star medals, two Combat Action Badges, a Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Superior Unit award, among others.
MDSC was constituted December 21, 1928, in the Regular Army as the 3rd Auxiliary Surgical Group Activated May 5, 1942.
The ceremony ended with the symbolic passing of the colors and guests were invited to say their goodbyes to the outgoing commander and bid welcome to the new commander.
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