Raiders farewell Col. Pete Moon; welcome Col. James Armstrong

By Maj. Patrick ConnellyJune 1, 2023

Raider Soldiers from the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division bid farewell to their commander, Col. Pete Moon during a change of command ceremony May 31 on Fort Stewart. Moon relinquished command to Col. James Armstrong.

The 3rd Infantry Division 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team conducts a change of command ceremony on Fort Stewart, Georgia May 31, 2023. The change of command is a simple event rich in symbolism and heritage. Col. Pete Moon, outgoing 1abct Commander...
The 3rd Infantry Division 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team conducts a change of command ceremony on Fort Stewart, Georgia May 31, 2023. The change of command is a simple event rich in symbolism and heritage. Col. Pete Moon, outgoing 1abct Commander relinquished command to Col. James Armstrong. (Photo Credit: Pfc. Destiny Husband) VIEW ORIGINAL

Moon's tenure as the commander of 1st ABCT was marked by his steadfast commitment to his troops and to the mission. During his command, he led the brigade through training exercises, modernization, and a deployment to Germany to deter Russian aggression against our NATO allies and partners.

Under Moon's leadership, the Raider Brigade demonstrated excellence and achieved notable milestones. His unwavering dedication to the welfare and professional growth of his Soldiers earned him the respect and admiration of those who served under his command.

Command Teams and their colors march forward during the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team change of command at Fort Stewart, GA on May 31, 2023. Commanders and colors marching toward the center of the marching field is a tradition where all the...
Command Teams and their colors march forward during the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team change of command at Fort Stewart, GA on May 31, 2023. Commanders and colors marching toward the center of the marching field is a tradition where all the commanders and colors center on the formation during an event (Photo Credit: Pfc. Destiny Husband) VIEW ORIGINAL

“I’m glad to have had the opportunity to command, and more importantly to serve with the greatest Soldiers and Families of our nation,” Moon said. “To the Soldiers and Families of the Raider brigade, I know my words of thanks are inadequate. You come to work each day, put in the work, ready to fight and win, regardless of the conditions. You demonstrated to the rest of the world we will go anywhere, anytime, and as fast as we desire to defend our national interests, you all are the guardians of our freedom and I am forever grateful.”

Col. Armstrong (left), Col. Moon (middle left), Major General Costanza (middle right), and Major Perez (right) troop the line during the change of command ceremony on Fort Stewart, Georgia May 31, 2023. Trooping the line is a long honored...
Col. Armstrong (left), Col. Moon (middle left), Major General Costanza (middle right), and Major Perez (right) troop the line during the change of command ceremony on Fort Stewart, Georgia May 31, 2023. Trooping the line is a long honored tradition where the troops get a chance to see their new incoming commander during a change of command. (Photo Credit: Maj. Patrick Connelly) VIEW ORIGINAL

Moon will continue his career in Washington D.C. at the Pentagon in the Office of the Chief of Public Affairs.

As Col. James Armstrong assumed command of the Raiders, there was a palpable sense of excitement among the ranks. Armstrong brings with him a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective that promises to propel the brigade forward.

Major General Charles Costanza (right) passes the Brigade colors to Col. James Armstrong during the change of command ceremony on Fort Stewart, Georgia May 31, 2023. The passing of the colors is a time-honored tradition signifying the passing of...
Major General Charles Costanza (right) passes the Brigade colors to Col. James Armstrong during the change of command ceremony on Fort Stewart, Georgia May 31, 2023. The passing of the colors is a time-honored tradition signifying the passing of responsibility from the outgoing commander to the incoming commander. (Photo Credit: Maj. Patrick Connelly) VIEW ORIGINAL

“To the Raider Brigade Soldiers and families, I am excited to be part of this team. I look forward to serving with you,” Armstrong said. “This is Raider 6 signing on the net.”

Marching on, the Raider Brigade will continue to build lethality as the most modernized armored brigade in the Army.