68th CSSB uncases colors

By Kerstin LopezJanuary 14, 2011

68th CSSB uncases colors
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

With the return of the 68th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 43rd Sustainment Brigade, in November, the unit signified its official return with a colors uncasing ceremony Jan. 6 at the Special Events Center.

The battalion deployed in 2009 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, providing logistical support transporting various classes of supplies.

Outgoing battalion commander, Col. Thomas Rivard, and outgoing Battalion Command Sgt. Maj. Colvin Bennett uncased the unit's colors as the last official act of the battalion's redeployment after another successful tour of duty, signifying the battalion stands ready for future missions.

In addition to the uncasing ceremony, the battalion also conducted a change of command and a transfer of authority.

Incoming Command Sgt. Maj. Melvin Rutledge accepted authority and responsibility of the 68th CSSB with the traditional passing of the colors. The change of command ceremony welcomed Lt. Col. Alanna Cook as the incoming commander of the battalion.

Col. Christopher Richardson, 43rd SB provisional rear detachment commander, welcomed back the Soldiers of the 68th CSSB and praised them for their hard work and service to the Army and the nation.

"I want to personally thank you for your service, your dedication and your professionalism," Richardson said.

The redeployed Soldiers represent more than 40 military occupational skill sets that are pertinent to the Army, said Richardson.

"Though they are rarely the focus of news stories or the subject of popular films, they are critical in winning our nation's wars - they provide us supplies, transportation, maintenance, fuel and ammunition that ensure our Army's success on the battlefield."