FORT SHAFTER, Hawaii - The 8th Special Troops Battalion bid farewell to Lt. Col. Matthew Miller and welcomed Lt. Col. Christian Newton during a change of command ceremony hosted by Maj. Gen. David Wilson, Commanding General of the 8th Theater Sustainment Command, on Palm Circle, Fort Shafter, Hawaii, June 10th, 2021.
“Changes of command mark a time in the life of the unit when we celebrate the accomplishments of the unit under the leadership of the outgoing commander, Lt. Col. Matthew Miller, and we look with anticipation to the adventures that await the unit under the leadership of the new commander, Lt. Col. Christian Newton,” stated Wilson in his remarks.
During the ceremony, Miller, outgoing commander, passed the unit colors to Wilson, commanding general, who, in turn, passed the colors to Newton, incoming commander, representing the symbolic transfer of the responsibility of command.
The passing of the colors is a time-honored tradition, with the colors representing the rich heritage and history of the unit. As the incoming commander accepts the colors, the new leader is trusted with bringing unity, and direction to the formation.
Wilson, who served as host of the ceremony, said “this ceremony is just one of many that are occurring today in the Army, but what makes this event special is the world class professionals who took the time to put this event together to pay tribute and the right amount of homage to this unit and its leaders.”
Under Miller’s command, the battalion supported exercises and missions west of the International Date Line within the first and second island chains. Including one of its logistical support vessels traveling over 7,000 nautical miles through three different combatant command areas of responsibility.
“While commanding I sought to become a builder of teams, who were empowered and instilled to do great things,” said Miller. “Thankfully I was not alone in this endeavor, I prayed for great leaders and that is what I got.”
To close out his speech, Miller asked a familiar question for those that have serve with him, “what time is it?” The response being “Miller Time.”
Miller is heading to the Pentagon to work in the strategic mobility division of the G4.
Newton, who last served as the professor of military science and leadership at Alcon State University in Lorman, Mississippi, thanked everyone for taking the time to attend before thanking her husband and family for their support.
“I appreciate your support, your humor and for keeping me grounded,” Newton said. “I am looking forward to working with the 8th STB and its Ohana.”
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