FORT STEWART, Ga. — Command Sgt. Maj. Jean D. Milice relinquished responsibility of 3rd Infantry Division’s Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion to Command Sgt. Maj. Raul Aguilar Jr. during a change of responsibility ceremony at Cashe Garden at Fort Stewart, Georgia, April 4, 2023.
The ceremony symbolizes the transfer of responsibility as senior enlisted advisor to the new command sergeant major and is a momentous event, as the command sergeant major (CSM) is responsible for the professional development of the battalion’s Non-Commissioned Officer Corps (NCOs), and a vested interest in the health and welfare of the battalion’s Soldiers, and their Families.
“Today is a sweet and bitter day. I knew this day would come sooner rather than later, but I did not expect it to be this soon,” said Sgt. Maj. Jean D. Milice, Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 3rd Infantry Division.
Milice is no stranger to the 3rd ID, having previously served in the 3rd Sustainment Brigade as the Brigade S1 senior human resources NCO, as well as the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd ID in 2014.
Milice arrived once again in 2020 with extensive military expertise. He quickly adapted and found innovative ways to plan, coordinate and execute a series of multi-training senior enlisted engagements.
“Sgt. Maj. Milice is what a commander wants as a partner throughout command,” said Lt. Col Kelly Markin, HHBN, 3rd Infantry Division commander. “Thank you for being my battle buddy. Your advice, and navigating command with me… we made a great team.”
Milice, a native of Croix-des-Bouquet, Haiti, enlisted in the United States Army in March 1997, later joining as an active member in April of the same year. He attended numerous schools throughout his military career and graduated from the United States Army Sergeant’s Major Academy in 2021, and served three years with the Legion Battalion, managing the training and readiness improving the capabilities of their noncommissioned officer corps.
“Your great, dynamic teamwork and presence will be missed. I am confident that wherever the Army takes you next, you will be a great addition to the team.” said Markin in her remarks before giving the podium to the outgoing sergeant major.
During Milice’s tenure, HHBN conducted numerous exercises, including Warfighter, command post, and others.
He thanked his wife, Salimata Gano, and others who supported him during his time in the Army, and talked about what the Army and his family have meant to him.
“Many leaders want to serve in the Army's most decorated division. I was given that opportunity, for which I was grateful and honored to be call a dogface Soldier,” said in his remarks
“HHBN officers and Soldiers on the field, I thanked them for allowing me to serve as your battalion CSM and for supporting me during my time here in the 3rd ID from June 2014 until this day.” said Milice.
Milice expressed his gratitude and appreciation to his family and HHBN Soldiers for supporting and understanding the rigors of his duty. He welcomed the incoming command sergeant major, Aguilar, and congratulated him for becoming the new command sergeant major for HHBN.
Aguilar, a native of Los Angeles, California, enlisted in the Army in January 1997 and has served as Chief Religious Affairs NCO, in Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and held a variety of positions during his 26 years of service.
Aguilar said he was proud to be a part of the HHBN team and looks forward to what the future holds.
Aguilar thanked his children, and lastly his wife, to whom he said ‘Te amo mi reina’ spanish to I love you my queen, for standing by his side for 16 years without reservations and with total commitment.
“I am excited to become this great organization’s command sergeant major. This division has a rich history, so it is a humbling honor to assume this role,” said Aguilar. “I understand the challenges, sacrifices or rewards that come with this important mission. I will not take responsibility lightly and will leave it all on the field. I am Not Fancy, Just Tough.”
Social Sharing