FORT HOOD, Texas - Col. Douglas Crissman, the commander of 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, held an incoming brief, June 21, at the Memorial Chapel on Fort Hood for new Soldiers that arrived to the unit in the month of May.

The chapel pews were scattered with Soldiers of different ranks and backgrounds, all new to 3rd BCT. Some were fresh from basic training while others arrived with numerous years of experience and deployments under their belts.

The commander introduced himself and said his intent for the brief was to welcome the Soldiers to the unit and to set the standard for their time here.

"This is an opportunity to look new Soldiers in the eye and welcome them to the brigade," Crissman said.

Crissman touched a variety of topics including the history of the brigade and each of its subordinate battalions, the chain of command, personal safety and proper uniform wear.

He said it was important to provide the Soldiers with helpful hints and his expectations of them.

The brigade's command sergeant major, chaplain, family readiness support assistant and military and family life consultant also introduced themselves and passed out cards or pamphlets about their expertise.

Soldiers that attended the brief said it was very helpful and made them feel welcome to the unit.

"The commander seemed nice," said Pvt. Adam Green, a native of Colorado Springs, Colo. "Everyone's been fantastic and make you feel like family."