Command Sgt. Maj. Roger Daigle, garrison command sergeant major, said his farewells to the Soldiers, Families and friends who played a part in his role at Fort Huachuca, during his relinquishment of responsibility ceremony Dec. 19 at Alvarado Hall.
The ceremony consisted of the symbolic passing of the noncommissioned officer's sword and the responsibility of the U.S. Army garrison, Fort Huachuca, from Sgt. Maj. Ronald Samia, the Directorate of Plans, Training, Mobilization and Security installation operations sergeant major, to Daigle, who then passed the sword to Col. Dan McFarland, Fort Huachuca garrison commander.
McFarland then returned the sword to Samia who will be the acting garrison sergeant major until the new garrison sergeant major arrives.
Following the passing of the sword, McFarland spoke highly of Daigle and his leadership efforts. "He is a Soldier's Soldier, a leader's leader, and probably most importantly, a father's father," McFarland said. "For the last 18 months, he arrived every day with a determined heart to make our community better. He sought to right wrongs and serve those who served our nation. For your selfless service, devotion, and private council you have given me, I thank you."
Following McFarland's remarks, Daigle began his speech by thanking numerous individuals in the crowd for their attendance.
"Commanders, I appreciate the support you have given me over the last 18 months here at Fort Huachuca, whether we served only six months or 18 months now," Daigle said. "You never questioned [me] if I gave you a call and needed something."
To McFarland, Daigle said, "Sir, thank you for your kind words. I too consider you a friend."
Looking back on his time at Fort Huachuca, Daigle reflected on the changes he and his Family have experienced. He said, "The last 18 months have been challenging but rewarding. When you are in a battalion or brigade, you see the difference you make with the Soldiers every day. You know what you do to them. You don't necessarily see that [difference] as a garrison sergeant major. Some of it can be immediate, but some of it takes time.
"I think I have made a difference. I think my Family has made a difference to the Fort Huachuca and Sierra Vista community," Daigle said. "I truly do believe that as a sergeant major, you have got to get out and be with the team and make a difference. I think that was my effective part."
As an expression of gratitude for their support and well wishes in their future endeavors, the Fort Huachuca Select Honor Guard presented red roses to Daigle's wife, Jennifer, and his two daughters, Courtney and Margaret. His sons, Colin, Thomas and Nathan, received coins.
Maj. Gen. Robert Ashley, commanding general, U.S. Army Intelligence Center of Excellence and Fort Huachuca, presented Daigle with a Legion of Merit award.
The ceremony concluded with the singing of the "Military Intelligence Corps March" and the "Army Song."
Daigle has already reported at his next assignment where he is serving as the G3 sergeant major at U.S. Army Cyber Command, Ft. Belvoir, Va.
Social Sharing