FORT CARSON, Colo. -- The mantle of leadership for the 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) changed hands in a ceremony June 24, as Col. John Deedrick assumed command, replacing Col. Sean Swindell.
“Trojan Warriors” formed for the last time under the command of Swindell, who led the 10th SFG(A) for the last two years.
“The memories from the last 24 months will always be with me for the rest of my life,” said Swindell. “Memories of great officers, warrant officers, NCOs, Soldiers and civilians … a team of quiet professionals who have demonstrated a level of loyalty and dedication, which is beyond description. You are truly the best of the best, and I am enormously proud of each and every one of you for the manner in which you serve our country every day.”
Under his leadership, the group excelled in accomplishing many difficult missions, including operating as a Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force in Iraq and taking the close fight to the enemy in the rugged mountains of Afghanistan.
“In Iraq and Afghanistan, Trojan Warriors have been at the forefront of the close fight; training, advising, leading and enabling partnered forces in combat, developing capacity and using it to attack the enemy on a nightly basis,” Swindell said. “Over the past few years the Soldiers on the field today were instrumental in turning the tide in Iraq, helping to neutralize the threat posed by al-Qaida as well as Shia extremist organizations. As we stand here today, elements of our unit are combating the Taliban as part of a NATO force in Afghanistan.”
A major focus of his command was the challenge of establishing a fourth battalion at Fort Carson, increasing the group’s capabilities in executing missions around the globe.
“The group was assigned the daunting task of building the organizational functions and staff procedures for a newly-activated Special Forces battalion and the results were phenomenal,” said Swindell. “Our activation cell and the 4th Battalion’s command team efforts ensured the battalion exceeded all equipping and manning milestones.”
Swindell also expressed his appreciation for the support of the local community.
“I’d like to thank those outside the gates of Fort Carson,” he said. “Whether it is in the consideration our children receive in local schools, donations and support from businesses and local organizations or a kind word from our civilian neighbors and friends, Colorado Springs is a community that truly cares for servicemembers and their families.”
His admiration and gratitude was also extended to those who quietly support the Trojan Warriors during their toughest times " their Families.
“The strength of character that I have witnessed in the unit’s Soldiers over the years is matched only by that of their spouses and Families. I include myself among the vast majority of Trojan Warriors that know, regardless of where we deploy to or for however long we are gone, we have strong spouses and Families carrying on life at home. They prepare a place for our return and support each other through difficult times.”
Deedrick spent many years serving in some of the most demanding positions in the Special Forces community. He brings his extensive experience, tactical knowledge and strong leadership to the group. Together with the unit’s new senior enlisted leader, Command Sgt. Maj. Jason Krider, they will carry on the group’s reputation of excellence in quietly executing the most challenging missions demanded of the Army.
“It is impossible to look across this field today and not be reminded of the storied history and lineage of the 10th Special Forces Group,” said Deedrick. “By their performance in combat and willingness to always answer the call of duty, the Soldiers standing here today have written important chapters in the group’s history. Our nation asks much of us on a daily basis, and I know we will continue to answer the call to duty.”
The pride, commitment and professionalism by every Trojan Warrior of the 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) was captured in the words of Swindell during his final remarks to his Soldiers.
“During four combat rotations with this group, I have witnessed the absolute professionalism, ability and dedication of the members of the Trojan Warrior family. Regardless of who is in command, success is never in doubt " 10th Special Forces Group has always gotten the job done.”
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