FORT BRAGG, N.C. (June 18, 2021) – Members of the Fort Bragg community, 4th Brigade ROTC, and invited guests welcomed Col. Michael G. Mourouzis and said farewell to Col. Trevor W. Hill during the brigade’s change of command ceremony held on June 18 at the John F. Kennedy Auditorium.
Brigade Deputy James S. Shutt, narrated the ceremony and began with an awards presentation for Hill and his wife for their commitment to the “All American” Brigade.
Shutt spoke of the significance of the ceremony and introduced guest speaker Maj. Gen. John R. Evans Jr., commander of the U.S. Army Cadet Command.
“The change of command ceremony is a military tradition that runs deep in symbolism and heritage. The key to the change of command is the passing of the colors. The colors not only represent the heritage and history of the unit, but also stand for the unity and loyalty of its Soldiers,” he explained.
In his remarks, General Evans said, “It’s always great being back at Fort Bragg,” where he started his career. “I think this change of command ceremony is bittersweet for both the outgoing commander and for me,” he said.
He continued with heartwarming remarks to Hill and Mourouzis’ families.
“We’re excited for what comes next for Team Hill, a little bit melancholy as we bid farewell to a tried and tested commander who performed flawlessly during some of the most challenging times that Cadet Command and our Nation has ever seen. When it comes to outstanding commanders, I can tell you Trevor Hill is a benchmark,” he shared.
“Being selected as a brigade commander is an extreme honor. Only the best officers make it this far,” Evans added.
During his tenure, Hill successfully commissioned more than 1,600 young officers into the U.S. Army despite the pandemic. Evans said this is the most of any brigade commander in the cohort.
Hill will leave 4th Brigade to work in the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., but he said he feels he is “leaving his jersey in a better place than he found it.”
Evans concluded his remarks by welcoming Mourouzis, expressing his excitement about working with him for the oncoming years.
“I know you are more than up to the task and challenge of commanding the “All American” brigade, and you are the right man at the right time,” he said.
Hill expressed his gratitude for his brigade staff and the 38 Senior ROTC battalions at colleges and universities across six states within 4th Brigade.
"It's been an honor to be part of this team for the last two years,” he said. “The brigade not only exceeds mission every year, but mentors our cadets throughout their journey to becoming an Army officer.”
He spoke about the dedication of his staff to their Cadets, mentoring each one as if they were their own children.
"Despite the challenges of the pandemic, our programs adapted to the environment and trained thousands of future leaders for our Army," said Hill.
Hill also highlighted special guests in the audience and the impact they’ve had on his career. His remarks included heartfelt memories and some comedic comments to the family atmosphere within the brigade staff. He concluded with thanks to his family and a welcome to the incoming commanding family.
In closing remarks, Hill told Mourouzis, “You are more ready than I was, and you’re going to knock it out of the park.”
Mourouzis began his address with his thanks to many audience members for attending, and specifically Evans for the opportunity to serve.
“I am thrilled to return to Army ROTC after 23 years. Fourth Brigade is a unique organization with exceptional Soldiers and Civilians that produces lasting impacts across the entire Army,” he said.
Mourouzis briefly spoke about our next generation of Army leaders and his confidence in our young Cadets and future officers.
As Mourouzis continued with his welcome address, he expressed his admiration and appreciation to his family and friends, who joined the ceremony both physically and virtually. “I look forward to joining the 4th Brigade team to build the future leaders of our Army.”
After the ceremony, the audience joined both Hill and Mourouzis as they sang the Army song and then joined the Mourouzis family at a reception held in the atrium of the JFK Auditorium.
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