FORT SHAFTER FLATS, Hawaii - The Army Reserve's 9th Mission Support Command (MSC) senior enlisted responsibilities changed hands from Command Sgt. Maj. Joven Miranda to Command Sgt. Maj. Forrest Wacker in a ceremony on the 9th MSC Parade Field, here, Sept. 28.
Miranda steps down after five years of service as the 9th MSC command sergeant major. He is also retiring after 33 years of service.
Before the ceremony, Miranda reflected on his career.
"I think my biggest dream at boot camp was to make sergeant and get out," said Miranda. "Never in my military mind did I think I would make it to this rank.
"There (are) a lot of people in the Army that came into my life in the last 32 to 33 years, but there are few Soldiers that left a footprint in my heart." he added. "I can honestly say if I died today and (was) given a chance to be born again, never any doubt in my military mind, I would join the Army again."
Miranda, the seventh command sergeant major for the 9th MSC, also shared some words of advice for Wacker.
"Communication is the best tool in order to be successful in a position like this," he said.
"It feels good to be the new command sergeant major," said Wacker. "I look forward to moving up and participating at the next level."
Wacker assumes his role during a busy time. The Army Reserve is currently undergoing a transformation, and the 9th MSC is leading the way in this transformation.
Wacker believes his skill sets and experience will help him in his new role.
"I understand transformation from concept to implementation, and I can explain it in laymen's terms," he said.
Wacker said he understands change and transformation can be an uneasy time for Soldiers and full-time support staff.
"Letting them know that we care about them is an important part of the process."
The Army Reserve as a whole, under the guidance of the Chief of the Army Reserve Lt. Gen. Jack Stultz, is transforming from a strategic to an operational force.
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