FORT POLK, La. -- The Joint Readiness Training Center and Fort Polk began a new chapter July 8 as the garrison command transferred from Col. David Sage to Col. Francis Burns. Burns' last operational assignment was to Fort Hood, Texas, where he served as the deputy commanding officer, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division during Operation Iraqi Freedom 06-08.
Davis Tindoll Jr., director, Southeast Region, Installation Management Command, presided over the ceremony. He outlined the IMCOM mission and the importance of garrison commanders. "As our Army protects our citizens and serves our nation in a time of war against enemies that threaten our freedom, much is expected of Soldiers and their Families," he said. "U.S. Army Installation Management Command's mission is to provide the Army with the capabilities and services to support expeditionary operations in a time of persistent conflict, and to provide a quality of life for Soldiers commensurate with their service. We stand ready to meet that challenge.
"Garrison command is IMCOM's centerpiece. Our garrison commanders are crucial to successful mission accomplishment. The Army does not train Soldiers to be garrison commanders, but it does develop leaders who are capable, innovative and motivated."
Tindoll reviewed Sage's accomplishments and commended his hard work, a testament to the distance Fort Polk has come as an installation in the past three years. "Colonel Sage has succeeded in overcoming challenge after challenge," he said. "I applaud his effort to transition Fort Polk from the IMCOM Midwest region to the Southeast region. He made a seamless transition and made Fort Polk a welcome asset to the Southeast region.
"His support to JRTC included 10 rotational units each year and oversight of a $150 million renovation project to support the Foreign Security Forces Training Team. He has been a leader in the privatization of water and wastewater utilities. Construction is underway for three modular child development centers and a new post exchange. "Simultaneously he has coordinated the demolition of almost 200 WWII era buildings and managed nearly $500 million in funding. He has touched all areas of Family Morale, Welfare and Recreation facilities and programs, resulting in the renovation of the golf course pro shop, the opening of restaurants, a North Fort fitness center and countless other improvements.
"He has championed the Army Family covenant to improve programs for Soldiers and their Families, and used the Army's community covenant to enhance relations with Fort Polk's local communities. His influence has also extended off the installation. His effort to create the heritage day celebrations over the past two years have solidified and deepened the relationship between Fort Polk, the Army and citizens of Louisiana who made sacrifices in support of our nation's defense. His personal dedication to partnerships we enjoy with communities and organizations has helped not only improve the quality of life for those who live and work on Fort Polk, but also for those whose support we need." Sage plans to retire and work as a contractor with JRTC.
Burns comes to Fort Polk as a qualified professional, according to Tindoll. "Colonel Burns' extensive experience and military education offer impeccable credentials for installation command," Tindoll said. "Because of his demonstrated leadership, I am confident he will build on the successes of previous garrison commanders. I look forward to working with him as we sustain, support and defend this installation for the Army, senior commander, assigned units and members of the Fort Polk community."
Sage departed with words of appreciation for the local community and the Fort Polk team. "Fort Polk has a special community," he said. "There is something here that you don't get to see everywhere. You will say the pledge of allegiance to the U.S. flag, pray and sing "The Star Spangled Banner" in southwest Louisiana more than any other place in America.
"We have an incredible set of Department of the Army civilians and contractors at Fort Polk. Without their efforts and expertise, this post would not run -- I am thankful for all of their efforts."
Sage welcomed the Burns Family to Fort Polk. "This is going to be a fun ride for you," he said. "You will come to love this community."
Burns acknowledged the friendliness of the installation and surrounding area. "Fort Polk has been more than welcoming," he said. "It is the best hometown in the Army."
Burns said he plans to take a cue from Greg Mortenson's recent book, "Three Cups of Tea": Listen, build relationships, develop trust. "Those are the things I plan on doing here," he said.
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