Fort Jackson's Garrison welcomed Command Sgt. Maj. Anthony J. Wilson, as its newest senior enlisted leader Tuesday in a change of responsibility ceremony at Victory Field.
Wilson took responsibility for Fort Jackson's Garrison from Command Sgt. Maj. John P. Drawbond Jr. during the event reviewed by Col. Stephen Elder, Garrison commander.
Elder praised Wilson for the experience he will bring the Fort Jackson.
Elder met Wilson when they were at Joint Base San Antonio when they were both attending the Garrison Leaders Course.
"I could tell right away we would be happy" to have Wilson be the senior enlisted leader for Fort Jackson's Garrison, Elder said.
Wilson brings a vast skillset to Fort Jackson. He enlisted in the Army in 1991 as an 11C -- Indirect Fire Infantryman, but in 1995 reclassified to 75D -- Personnel Records Specialist -- what is a 42A -- Human Resources Specialist today. He deployed four times to combat zones including one tour to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and three tours to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. His last assignment was as the senior enlisted leader of Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, U.S. Army North, Joint-Base Fort Sam Houston, Texas.
Elder said it was it was "great" to have an 11-series at Fort Jackson.
"Your reputation has preceded you," he added.
During his brief comments during the ceremony, Wilson said he will be giving "100 percent" every day.
While the Garrison Commander welcomed Wilson to the fold, he also bid farewell to Drawbond who had been through "two hurricanes, Victory Block Leave, a tree lighting ceremony, boxing smoker and a Centennial Celebration under his belt" before Elder took command
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Elder praised Drawbond's quiet demeanor and behind-the-scenes tenacity.
"It didn't matter the case, he cared and he made a difference," Elder said.
"Command Sgt. Maj. Drawbond you did well," he added. "Thank you very much."
Drawbond thanked Fort Jackson for the support they gave him in his last speech as the Garrison's senior enlisted leader.
"Thank you for treating me well," he said. "I hope you extend it to Command Sgt. Maj. Wilson as well."
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