GRAFENWOEHR, Germany - "Brig. Gen. Hogg, during the time he has been here has implemented many of the improvements that you see today throughout the training area," said Gen. Carter F. Ham, commander of the U.S. Army Europe and Seventh Army. "Brig. Gen. Hogg oversaw projects to upgrade ranges to make the Joint Multinational Training Command what it is today - world class training."
Ham addressed a crowd gathered at the Grafenwoehr parade field on June 9, 2009 to bid Brig. Gen. David R. Hogg, commander of the 7th U.S. Army Joint Multinational Training Command (JMTC) and his family goodbye. Hogg leaves Grafenwoehr, Germany, and the JMTC later this month to become the deputy chief of staff for operations for the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan.
Ham credited Hogg with making many improvements to JMTC's training and capabilities, which make the JMTC an extraordinary training facility.
"Unless you have been assigned to the Command, you really do not know what these great Soldiers, civilians, and local national do for the Army in Europe and the Army overall, said Hogg addressing the audience, "Every mission asked - executed to standard, regardless of when or where. We could not ask for better."
Hogg said it was a combination of Soldiers, civilians, local nationals and community leaders that deserve the credit.
"I sincerely hope this team's work has contributed to the community in a positive way," said Hogg, during an interview earlier this month. "We are proud the JMTC has helped develop some of the most highly trained soldiers in the world, but we also know the success of the facilities and training areas has largely been because of the willingness of community leaders to work with us, as partners and friends."
The 7th U.S. Army JMTC trains U.S. and multinational soldiers for missions in Iraq, Afghanistan and Kosovo. In addition, the Command provides about 5000 local jobs.
During the ceremony, Hogg admitted the JMTC could not accomplish its mission without the help of others, and he specifically thanked many units and individuals for their support. He could often be heard talking about the importance of building relationships.
One of the lessons-learned he touts is about 'understanding partners you're working with, and fighting with.' He said he will take that with him to his next assignment.
Hogg has been commander of the JMTC since April 19, 2007. Before assuming command of the JMTC, Hogg served as assistant division commander for support, 1st Armored Division, U.S. Army Europe and Seventh Army.
Hogg's successor is U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Steven L. Salazar of the Multi-National Security Transition Command - Iraq Joint Headquarters Army Advisory Training Team. Salazar assumes his duties as the commanding general this fall.
"Brig. Gen. Salazar is just recently out of Iraq, and will bring fresh blood, fresh ideas and new energy into making the JMTC better than it is today," said Hogg of his successor. "He is a great guy and the right one for the job."
Hogg said it's not a farewell ceremony really...
"Today the Hogg family officially says not goodbye, but until we meet again," said Hogg as he concluded his speech. "Thanks for everything and see you on the high ground."
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