Soldiers sat silently awaiting the arrival of their new command sergeant major, their calm demeanors contrasting with a child's cries of "Daddy."
Though the contradictory nature of the two groups was apparent to all, looking after the desires of both will all be part of the job for new U.S. Army Garrison Headquarters Command command sergeant major, Command Sgt. Maj. Karl Roberts.
Roberts assumed that responsibility during a ceremony held at the battalion headquarters, June 25.
"My family and I are truly blessed, honored and extremely humbled for this opportunity to serve at a post that is at the forefront of our Army," Roberts said.
In his new role, Roberts will serve as the senior enlisted advisor for the battalion. He will work hand-in-hand with battalion commander Lt. Col. LaDonna Holt to serve their Soldiers and the surrounding Fort McPherson and Fort Gillem communities.
"With the position of command sergeant major of this battalion comes responsibility, authority and accountability," Holt said, adding that in all previous assignments (including his most recent as command sergeant major for the 7th Special Forces Group, Group Support Battalion at Fort Bragg, N.C.), Roberts has served exceptionally well.
"He has risen to challenges and achieved many goals," Holt said of Roberts' time there.
Though at first glance the transfer from a Special Forces group to a base set to close seems daunting, Roberts said there really isn't that much of a change.
"I'll still be dealing with Soldiers, Civilians and Families," Roberts said. "It's more of personal change of who you're working with."
In dealing with these groups, Roberts said his goal is to create a smooth transition for Soldiers and their Families, facilitate movement as the base closes and work with whoever takes over the installation.
In doing so, Roberts said he will rely on his own family, fiancAfAe Eunice Pickett and son Khristian, 21 months.
"I'm no different than any Soldier with family," he said. "I pledge my unwavering commitment and support."
That commitment will be very important in keeping not only the unit strong, but also the Army as a whole, Holt said.
"Our Army's success is very dependent upon the quality of our leaders, those in positions of command and responsibility," she explained.
As for his own assumption of responsibility as part of the USAG command, Roberts said he is motivated to start work and to face the challenges to come.
"I look forward to serving the Soldiers, Families and Civilians of this great post, as well as building a strong cohesive relationship with our local communities," Roberts said.
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