FORT RUCKER, Ala. -- The 1st Battalion, 13th Aviation Regiment welcomed its new senior NCO during a change of responsibility ceremony on Howze Field Tuesday.

Command Sgt. Maj. Devon M. Weber assumed responsibility from Command Sgt. Maj. George S. Webster during the ceremony as the incoming commander accepted the unit colors from Lt. Col. Kevin E. McHugh, 1-13th Avn. Regt. commander.

"This morning we say farewell to a leader who has positively impacted the personal and professional lives of countless Soldiers and civilians, not only within the battalion and the brigade, but also in and around Fort Rucker," said McHugh during the ceremony. "Reflecting back on the past months, I could not have asked for a better leader, professional and friend to continually strive to reach new heights within this organization while caring for those that give so much.

"But as one great leader departs, another arrives, and the Army continues to get this right -- this transition of leadership is no exception," he continued. "A proven and established Soldier and leader, I will tell you that I'm truly excited as Command Sergeant Major Weber is the right leader at the right time to continue to take this great organization to even higher levels."

Weber entered military service in 1996 as a CH-47 Chinook helicopter repairer. He then had numerous assignments all across the U.S. and abroad in many leadership positions, including crew chief and flight engineer instructor for the MH-47E helicopters at Fort Campbell, Kentucky; platoon sergeant and standardization instructor for MH-47E helicopters in South Korea; platoon sergeant and battalion production control supervisor for MH-47G helicopters at Fort Lewis, Washington; and again at Fort Campbell as a flight company and higher headquarters company first sergeant.

He has also served on numerous deployments in support of Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom, as well as various contingency operations across the globe.

"It is truly and honor and a privilege to be standing before you today," said Weber as he assumed command. "George, one could not ask for a better hand off. What you've accomplished over the last few years is absolutely inspiring and in some ways very humbling. I look forward to continue on the path you've set."

That path includes dedication to the Soldiers and families of the 1-13th, said McHugh, adding that building relationships with Soldiers is part of what makes a great leader, something that Webster was able to accomplish during his 17 months as the battalion command sergeant major.

"As I look back before that day (when taking command), I remember thinking of the importance of the command team relationship and the rippling effects one can have across an organization," said the battalion commander. "Webster, you have always led from the front on behalf of our Soldiers and leaders. You have tirelessly picked up and carried the rocks to improve our foxhole, and you have always been there to provide sound guidance and judgment."

Webster said he was grateful for the opportunity to serve the 1-13th, adding that he has full confidence in Weber to take the unit to even greater heights.

"Devon, let me be the first to congratulate you as the new CSM," said the outgoing command sergeant major. "As the commander said during his speech, I also believe that the Army got it right when they selected you for this battalion. I have no doubt that you're going to be extremely successful. You are joining a team of outstanding officers, noncommissioned officers and Soldiers, and they are ready to support you."

Webster will go on to his next assignment as the command sergeant major for Air Traffic Services Command.