Installation Contracting Command, hands the 918th Contracting Battalion's
colors to incoming commander Lt. Col. Thomas G. McFall for the first time,
as outgoing commander Lt. Co... VIEW ORIGINAL
FORT CARSON, Colorado, (May 19, 2015) -- Lt. Col. Thomas G. McFall assumed command of the 918th Contracting Battalion during a ceremony May 12, 2015, at the Special Events Center.
McFall, who last served as the expeditionary contracting chief for the Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army for Procurement at the Pentagon, replaced Lt. Col. Christopher C. Ostby.
The transfer of command featured the traditional passing of the unit colors from the outgoing commander to the ceremonial host, Brig. Gen. Jeffrey A. Gabbert, commanding general, U.S. Army Mission and Installation Contracting Command, and then to the incoming commander.
"It's a great day," Gabbert said. "We are assembled today to honor the Ostby Family for all they have done for this magnificent command and to welcome a (new) command team."
After highlighting the unit's achievements under Ostby's leadership, Gabbert welcomed McFall to the formation, stating that he is the right person to lead the unit into the future.
"Lt. Col. McFall, you now lead the fine men and women of the 918th," he said. "Judging by your past performance and reputation throughout our Army, there is no doubt this unit is in great hands."
Ostby followed Gabbert, commending his Soldiers for their achievements.
"I could not have asked for a better group of exceptional individuals," Ostby said. "You have accomplished countless difficult tasks and set the standard for other units to emulate. I have the utmost confidence that you will continue to lead the way."
Ostby will next serve as the acquisition management chief, U.S. Army Human Resources Command, Fort Knox, Kentucky.
McFall thanked Ostby for handing over a "great" unit and for helping him during the transition period.
"Serving in the Army is a team sport," said McFall. "Behind every Soldier are loved ones that support the Soldier. To the Families of the 918th, I thank you for that support because without it our jobs would (be) very difficult, if not impossible."
McFall's military awards include the Bronze Star Medal, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal and the Meritorious Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters.
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