SCHWEINFURT, Germany -- As summer approaches, many communities, like the one here, are bidding farewell to great leaders, setting in motion a wave of permanent changes of station due to garrison closure in the fall of 2014.
In a Relinquishment of Command ceremony held May 22 on Conn Barracks, Col. Michael Runey relinquished the command of USAG Schweinfurt to the Ansbach Garrison Commander, Col. Kelly Lawler, who delegated garrison management and closure responsibilities to the U.S. Army Garrison Schweinfurt Deputy to the Garrison Commander, Brian Adkins.
"Mr. Brian Adkins was named garrison manager for Schweinfurt last week," said Lawler. "He will assist me in the day-to-day business of running a garrison. However, ultimate command and control will lie with the Franconia Military Community. This means in the turbulent times ahead, as we move toward closure of U.S. Army Garrison Schweinfurt, we will continue our mission which is supporting our Soldiers and families."
Runey assumed command of U.S. Army Garrison Schweinfurt July 15, 2011. In remarks delivered at the ceremony, Runey praised and thanked the major players of Team Schweinfurt: Tactical team, garrison team, community team, German-American team, IMCOM team and command group team.
"We speak 'Team Schweinfurt' not only as our motto but we live those words out daily, building common identity and shared purpose," said Runey. "We are a Team of Teams, and I extend my sincere appreciation and thanks to the five teams that make up our community."
Runey also expressed heart-felt appreciation toward his family -- Team Runey -- and thanked them for being a part of the community.
"You are engaged in our community, and we are incredibly proud of you," said Runey. "The Army can provide some awesome experiences and opportunities, but always remember that the highlight of my day is coming home to your Mom and you."
The U.S. Army has had a presence in Schweinfurt for nearly 70 years. Yet Schweinfurt city and county officials, along with the U.S. Army, have worked together even as numerous Army leaders have transitioned in and out of the garrison commander position. In the U.S. Army's storied history in Schweinfurt, Runey marks its last garrison commander here.
"I cannot think of a worthier leader to hold such a historically significant role in this garrison's history," said Lawler. "The Schweinfurt command team has set the example for team cohesiveness and honest caring for one another. This is especially important in view of the upcoming closure of U.S. Army Garrison Schweinfurt."
Runey and his family will depart Schweinfurt en route to their next duty station, though that is still to be determined.
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