Community welcomes new garrison commander

VICENZA -- Soldiers, civilians, family members and many local dignitaries looked on as Col. Robert L. Menist Jr. relinquished command of United States Army Garrison Vicenza to incoming commander Col. Steven M. Marks at Hoekstra Field here, Aug. 28.

The ceremony also marked the end of USAG Vicenza, as the colors of the unit were cased for a final time under Army guidance to redesignate the unit to United States Army Garrison Italy. The redesignation will better define the organization, making sure all communities belonging to the garrison are included, according to Michael D. Formica, Region Director, Installation Management Command -- Europe.

"To better illustrate that this garrison supports the Vicenza military community and areas throughout Italy, the U.S. Army is redesignating U.S. Army Garrison Vicenza to U.S. Army Garrison Italy. This name change solidifies our position as the Army's service provider everywhere south of the Alps," said Formica.

Before he leaves for an Army fellowship in Washington, Menist praised the community "South of the Alps" as he bade farewell to the people who have made this what, he said, an amazing experience.

"Each and every one of us helps make this a better place to work, a more vibrant place to live, a more enjoyable experience for us all," Menist said. "I have had the privilege of sharing memorable experiences with our Italian hosts and neighbors. I couldn't have asked for more reliable partners or better friends. It is the strong partnership between our two nations today that enriches and benefits each member of both our communities here in Vicenza."

As Marks took the reins, he welcomed the attending Italian dignitaries and guests as he tried his hand at speaking Italian in a short speech, much to the surprise of the crowd. Marks thanked distinguished visitors Formica and Lt. Gen. Ben Hodges, commanding general, U.S. Army Europe, for their faith and trust in his abilities, and then made some promises.

"I promise that I will do all that I can to ensure that this garrison remains ready to provide support and services to our diverse communities, enabling mission readiness, and enhancing quality of life," he said. "To my mentors, I promise that the time you invested in me will not be in vain. I promise that I will not let you down. … To my wife Myra and our two boys, Hayden and Jacob, I promise to do my best to balance my duties at work with my responsibilities at home.

"And to all of you, I promise the best of me. You deserve nothing less. I am humbled to stand in your ranks and grateful for this opportunity to continue to serve our great nation here in Italy."

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