The new commander of the 3rd Chemical Brigade didn't move far across Fort Leonard Wood to assume command Friday.
Col. Sean Crockett, previously the assistant commandant for the U.S. Army Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear School here, replaced Col. Daryl Hood as brigade commander during a ceremony held on Gammon Field.
Hood praised the brigade's drill sergeants, Advanced Individual Training platoon sergeants, instructors and support cadre for being "exceptional on all accords."
"Thank you for buying into the brigade's mission of being extraordinary professionals, truly making a difference every day in every life as we serve others," he said.
Brig. Gen. James Bonner, CBRN School commandant, credited Hood for the success of the brigade during a time of change, calling Hood an "agile, adaptive leader who seized opportunities to provide vision and then motivated and led his team to success."
During his tenure, Bonner said Hood was responsible for leading the training for more than 34,000 chemical Soldiers and 7,000 Transportation Corps Soldiers.
"It's been a pleasure serving with you," Bonner said to Hood. "Take account of what 3rd Chem. Bde. has done and what you have accomplished."
Bonner next turned his attention to Crockett saying he "brings a wealth of knowledge to this command."
"I have total confidence in your judgement and character and know we will continue to build upon this proud unit," Bonner added.
Hood also added his support to Crockett.
"Congratulations on this fine opportunity to serve as brigade commander," Hood said. "You are a remarkable leader. I know you are ready for this brigade."
Crockett said he was honored and humbled for the opportunity to lead the 3rd Chem. Bde.
Crockett received his commission in 1995 upon graduating from Auburn University and has served as a chemical officer his entire career.
Before his tour as assistant commandant at the schoolhouse, Crockett served in various leadership positions with the 20th Support Command (CBRNE) at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, as well as 23rd CBRNE Battalion at Joint Base Lewis-McCord, Washington.
He completed the U.S. Army Basic Airborne Course and is a recipient of the German (Armed Forces) Proficiency Badge (Gold).
"I look forward to assisting the Phoenix team in writing the next chapter in this historic brigade's history," Crockett said.
The 3rd Chem. Bde. conducts Basic Combat Training and Advanced Individual Training in transportation and CBRN operations. The brigade is comprised of four infantry battalions, one transportation battalion, one CBRN battalion and the E.F. Bullene CBRN Defense Training Facility.
"No brigade has performed a more challenging, diverse and decentralized mission than this brigade," Bonner said.
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