FORT HOOD, Texas – Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center's Troop Command said goodbye to one commander and welcomed its newest leader in a change of command ceremony on Prichard Field May 27.
Lt. Col. Jody Shipley assumed command from Lt. Col. Scott Harrison, who led the troop command battalion for the last two years. Harrison is off to attend the Army War College in the National Capital Region.
Harrison, a Physician's Assistant, skillfully navigated the two-year troop command assignment.
In his opening remarks, Col. Richard Malish, commander of CRDAMC, praised Harrison for successfully managing the demands of readiness and delivering healthcare to Soldiers, family members, and retirees.
Balancing the demands of ensuring a ready medical force and having Soldiers available to support the healthcare delivery that enables a medically ready force is the challenge of the troop commander.
"Troop Command is likely one of the most difficult commands in the Army because you have to ensure Soldiers stay up-to-date on all Soldier tasks and training so they're ready for the combat mission while not making the brigade commander mad by having critical roles in the medical facility open which can hinder the delivery of healthcare," said Malish. "This is the tension associated with the troop commander's role, and Lt. Col. Harrison was the best I've ever seen doing it."
In his farewell remarks, Harrison thanked family, friends, and team members for their efforts and dedication to achieving his command's successes.
"You're going to hear a lot of thank you's this morning because the man that stands before you today is a blessed man," said Harrison, as he graciously thanked team members that served alongside him to accomplish the mission.
Harrison concluded his remarks by sharing that he could not have achieved success without the help, dedication, and support of his family and the group of patriots that was his team.
Lt. Col. Robert “Jody” Shipley took the battalion reins acknowledging that he would follow in the footsteps of a well-respected, hard-working leader.
“I find myself following in the footsteps of a great leader, and let’s face it, following a bad leader is easier because there’s nowhere to go but up, said Shipley. “Thank you and this team for paving a remarkable road for success here at CRDAMC and Fort Hood; I consider it a privilege to follow you.”
Shipley then turned his attention to outlining a vision for the battalion’s next chapter.
“Truly honored to be a part of the black knights, I simply couldn’t be more proud and honored to be here at this time, with this team, with this mission, he said.
“The challenges facing our Nation today are complex, and addressing them requires our complete focus, unity of effort, and effective partnerships. “Our ability to respond depends on the skills and dedication of the great men and women serving our team. It depends on you.”
Now, as the Troop Commander, Shipley says he’s looking forward to collaborative partnerships, strong teamwork, and focused effort to fulfill the mission.
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