More than two decades ago, Col. Richard E. Crogan II followed in Col. Alan M. Stull's footsteps as an Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University ROTC student.
On Monday, Crogan began another journey mirroring Stull's career path when he became the Aviation Center Logistics Command's newest leader during a change of command ceremony at the U.S. Army Aviation Museum.
ACLC was officially designated a permanent command Oct. 1, 2006, under Aviation and Missile Life Cycle Management Command, headquartered at Redstone Arsenal, according to the event narrator, retired Army Col. Scott Ciluffo. Stull served as the first leader of the newly designated unit, which provides Aviation maintenance and supply support here.
During the ceremony, Crogan remembered his college days with Stull.
"Part of the privilege and honor for me today is that I follow in command (of) one of the Soldiers I've admired from my early days, fellow ROTC cadet from many years ago at Embry-Riddle - Al Stull," Crogan said.
With his wife, Jacquelyn, and sons, Trey and Jack, alongside him, he promised he will follow Stull's legacy.
"To the Soldiers, civilians and Family members of ACLC ... I will give 110 percent every day to maintain the reputation of this unit," Crogan said.
Guest speaker Maj. Gen. James R. Myles, AMCOM commanding general, not only looked ahead toward ACLC's future, but also recognized its short, yet productive, past.
ACLC has accomplished much under Stull's leadership, Myles said.
ACLC staff increased the Fort Rucker helicopter training fleet mission capable rate above 70 percent, a first for the installation.
The unit also earned the Shingo Bronze Medallion in 2007 and 2009 for aircraft improvement operational excellence.
After congratulating Stull for his efforts here, Myles challenged Crogan to continue improving ACLC.
Stull said he will miss his home here when he moves with his wife, Lori, and daughter, Sophia, to work in the Secretary of the Army's office.
He also thanked friends and Family for the good memories during his service here.
"Commanding ACLC for three years has been absolutely awesome," he said. "Like any organization, it's always about the people. Lead them with respect and ensure they are trained for the mission, and there is nothing an organization can't do."
Before the change of command, Myles presented Stull the Legion of Merit award for exceptionally meritorious service as ACLC commander.
He also awarded Stull's wife, Lori, with the Commander's Award for Public Service and The Honorable Order of Our Lady of Loreto for her numerous volunteer positions held here.
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