FORT GEORGE G. MEADE, Md. -- Soldiers, civilians and family members of the 742nd Military Intelligence Battalion welcomed a new commander during a change of command ceremony held at the McGlachlin Parade Field, June 18.
Lt. Col. Troy Danderson assumed command of the "Might Through Vigilance" (MTV) battalion from Lt. Col. Tissa L. Strouse during a ceremony hosted by Col. Heidi A. Urben, commander, 704th Military Intelligence (MI) Brigade.
During the ceremony Urben welcomed the Danderson family to the MTV team.
"Congratulations on taking command of one of our MI Corps' real jewels," said Urben. "Danderson more than ready and prepared to take command of this storied battalion. He is a common-sense leader who has excelled everywhere he has served."
Danderson, who recently served as the executive officer to the Department of the Army Deputy Chief of Staff G-2, addressed the audience in attendance.
"Thank you for welcoming me to your ranks," Danderson said. "You showed me the vital role you play both to the Army and the nation's defense. I look forward to serving alongside you, the soldiers and civilians of the 704th Military Intelligence Brigade and our HHC partners."
Danderson also expressed his appreciation to the outgoing commander for the incredible legacy she leaving.
"You and command sergeant major Peyatt have built an organization with a clear identity based on character and mission focus," said Danderson. "Thank you for the dedication and sacrifices that you and your family have made for this unit. I will endeavor to maintain the high standard you've set."
During the ceremony Urben also thanked Strouse and her family for the support they brought both to the command and the community.
"Under lieutenant colonel Strouse's steady leadership, the soldiers and civilians of this battalion reorganized the army technical control and analysis element into the Army's single most important signals intelligence formation," said Urben.
In Strouse's farewell comments, she expressed her tenure at the 742nd MI Battalion has been one of the most interesting times in her Army career.
"I stand here today as the center of attention; but today really isn't about me," Strouse said. "It's about the soldiers and leaders standing in formation who volunteered to serve their nation. It's about the support network of friends, family, peers, and mentors who stood beside me providing advice, encouragement, and helping me recognize my full potential,"
Urben also presented Strouse's spouse with the 'Golden Rose Award' in recognition of willingness to serve and significantly contributing to the Army and the Military Intelligence Corps.
Strouse, who served the 742nd for the last two years, will soon be attending the Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy.
The 742nd MI Battalion is charged with conducting signals intelligence operations and training to deliver cryptologic enterprise capabilities to the National Security Agency, the Army, Joint, and Combined Forces.
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