U.S. Army Fort Detrick Garrison Command Sgt. Maj. Richard Jessup passed the sword to Command Sgt. Maj. Franklin Jordan, symbolizing the relinquishing of his responsibility, July 23 at the Fort Detrick Auditorium.
While giving his farewell remarks Jessup thanked the Fort Detrick community for their dedication and resilience the workforce has displayed during the past few years. "We have faced some tough challenges, things like furlough and sequestration. But you stood steadfast, held your head high and your shoulders back, and continued to move us as an installation in the right direction," said Jessup.
As Jessup was speaking to the crowd his government-issued cellular phone rang, Jessup answered it, and then informed the person who was calling to hang on as he handed the device to Jordan telling him, "it's for you," to the delight of the audience, who applauded the move.
During his remarks, USAG Fort Detrick Commander Col. Robert O'Brien said Jessup was instrumental during his arrival. "He cares and has established an approachable climate to get stuff done in the toughest circumstances. I'd like to thank you for your mentorship, patience and counsel over the last two months."
Jordan is arriving from Headquarters, Army Materiel Command, Redstone Arsenal, Huntsville, Alabama, where he served as U.S. Army Materiel Command Inspector General Sergeant Major since February 2014.
Born in Miami, Florida and raised in Alapaha, Georgia, Jordan entered the Army in July 1988, attending basic training at Fort Dix, New Jersey. He has held leadership positions including squad leader, platoon sergeant, support operation maintenance non-commissioned officer in charge, First Sergeant, Iraqi Security Force sergeant major, G-4 Maintenance Sergeant Major, Battalion Command Sergeant Major and Inspector General Sergeant Major.
"Serving twice as a command sergeant major already and with recent inspector general experience [Jordan] is well equipped to help bear the torch as we take the U.S. Army Garrison Fort Detrick into the future, focusing on teamwork, communication, standards and pride," said O'Brien.
Jordan thanked all those in attendance and said he is looking forward to his new job. "There is no greater honor than to lead Soldiers," said Jordan.
Social Sharing