CAMP ZAMA, Japan - United States Army Garrison Japan Soldiers, Civilian employees, community leaders, Family members and friends filled the Camp Zama Community Club Ballroom to witness Command Sgt. Maj. Billy J. Norman's assumption of responsibility as the garrison's new senior enlisted advisor during an Aug. 10 ceremony.
Garrison Commander Col. Phillip K. Gage introduced Norman to those in attendance.
"He has the right background for leading our garrison and community forward into the next chapter; a chapter that will no doubt be marked by distinct improvements in readiness for the Army in Japan, and improvements in services for the community we serve," Gage said of Norman. "Your tour here will be unlike anything you have done before. But, you are prepared and ready for the challenge. Thanks for your service and the inevitable contributions you will make for the Army in Japan, our Japanese neighbors and our Army Family."
Gage noted that Norman, who comes to USAG Japan after serving as the command sergeant major for the 10th Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum, N.Y., hit the ground running, or rather dancing, when he arrived.
"Command Sgt. Maj. Norman is already a veteran of Bon Odori, and danced the Bon Dance like an old pro, even though he arrived less than 24 hours prior to joining the distinct group of sergeants major on the Bon Tower," Gage said about the annual event held at Camp Zama, this year on Aug. 4.
Regarding his new position, Norman said, "I know it will be hard work. But, I'm devoted to giving our Soldiers, Families, this installation, as well as the surrounding community, 100 percent and then some. I am looking forward to working with all of you as we continue to strive for excellence in everything that we do.
Norman stressed the importance of building relationships and having strong, bilateral partnerships.
"As you look out into the audience, it is obvious that we have been successfully with that, because of all of the relationships we have been able to mature and develop over time," he said. "I am 100 percent committed to strengthening current relationships and establishing new ones, reinforcing the strong partnership ties between this installation and the surrounding community."
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