Steel Battalion [1-38 FAR] Change of Responsibility

CAMP CASEY, Republic of Korea - The 1st Battalion, 38th Field Artillery Regiment, 210th Field Artillery Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division ROK/US Combined Division, hosted the change of responsibility ceremony for its incoming and outgoing battalion command sergeants major at Hanson Field House, Feb 8, 2018.

Another historical moment for battalion, the ceremony commemorated Command Sgt. Maj. Cesar J. Zertuche, the outgoing command sergeant major for 1-38 FAR, and welcomed incoming Command Sgt. Maj. Jeffrey D. Price. As Price assumed his duties, Zertuche, was honored for his time as Steel 7 and his commitment to the Soldiers. Lt. Col. Aaron D. Bright, 1-38 FAR commander and the reviewing officer for the ceremony formally passed on the responsibility of the battalion's top non-commissioned officer from Zertuche to Price.

"Z [Zertuchie] and I knew each other before, way back when we were sergeant first class and lieutenant," said Bright. "After what seemed like an age ago, we came back together here in Korea, both of us had achieved a little more rank and I maintained my good looks."

Zertuche spent the last two years ensuring every Soldier under his responsibility was prepared to execute their mission and holding their leaders to the highest standards. He was also active with the local community where he and his Soldiers would spend time helping those in need, volunteer for charity events and sponsoring Dongducheon High School in the Gyeonggi province.

"Cesar [Zertuche] will be heading out to Fort Dix where he will be continuing the role of command sergeant major to a unit that will find itself extremely fortunate to have him," said Bright.

Price, who was laterally promoted to the rank of command sergeant major minutes before assuming his role as the command sergeant major for the Steel Battalion, shared his gratitude during the ceremony.

"What an honor and privilege it is to be standing in front of America's greatest Soldiers that our nation has to offer," said Price.

"I am looking forward to the future and I am up for the challenges that lie ahead," he said. "I also am looking forward to serving with each and every one of you as we continue to build upon the great reputation the Steel Battalion holds. Mostly I look forward to coaching, teaching and mentoring the Steel Soldiers to becoming tomorrow's leaders."