From left: Col. Marty Vannatter, former USAG Benelux commander, Michael Formica, director of IMCOM-Europe, and Col. Kurt Connell, USAG Benelux commander, pay their respects during playing of the Belgian and U.S. national anthems as part of the garris...

CHIEVRES, Belgium -- U.S. Army Garrison Benelux welcomed a new leader during a change-of-command ceremony held June 27 at Chievres Air Base.

Col. Kurt Connell assumed command of USAG Benelux from Col. Marty Vannatter.

"Kurt brings with him a team-first mindset and global perspective developed during many diverse assignments," said Michael Formica, director of Installation Management Command-Europe.

"His record of accomplishments is remarkable," added Formica. "These are just a few of the reasons why he was selected for command here."

At the end of the ceremony, attendees bid farewell to Vannatter, who is retiring after more than 30 years of service, with Formica saying, "Thank you for all that you achieved during your more than 30 years with the Army."