As gusts of wind blew up to 44 mph, the 309th Military Intelligence Battalion hosted a change of responsibility ceremony June 13 on Chaffee Field here to mark the change of senior enlisted leadership at the command.
Holding onto their belongings, Soldiers, Families and members from surrounding communities welcomed Command Sgt. Maj. Gregory Roman as the newest member of the 309th MI Bn. team and bid farewell to outgoing Command Sgt. Maj. Julie Guerra.
Presiding over the ceremony was Lt. Col. Laura Knapp, commander of the 309th MI Bn.
"When Sergeant Major Guerra and I met … in April of 2012, we quickly realized that we have the same priorities and values, and I knew then that this would be an exceptional partnership because Command Sergeant Major Julie Guerra is exceptional," Knapp said. "She shattered the glass of the stereotype of command sergeant major with her tornado-like energy and incredibly big heart hidden behind that drill sergeant badge."
As Guerra addressed the crowd, she left them with a gentle reminder about being an Army leader.
"For all the leaders that are here, never forget that it is an honor and a privilege to lead. We are fortunate that the Army has chosen us at all levels, to coach, teach and mentor," Guerra said. "I am grateful to have lead such a wonderful organization and I am proud to turn it over to somebody such as Roman, knowing how great all of you are," she added.
Guerra and her Family will move on to Fort Lewis, Washington.
Roman joins the 309th after serving as the G2 sergeant major for the 94th Army Air & Missile Defense Command, Fort Shafter, Hawaii.
After he thanked his wife, his Family and the leaders who have guided him to where he is today, Roman said to his new Soldiers, "You look outstanding. I look forward to working with you and working for you."
Originally from Monroe, Louisiana, Roman joined the military in September 1990. He has held every leadership position from team leader to first sergeant. Together, he and his wife Pamela have three sons serving in the military, and a daughter.
Social Sharing