FORT HUACHUCA, Ariz. – The 18th Military Police and 483rd Military Working Dog Detachments said farewell to Capt. Traci Beri and welcomed Capt. Jesus De La Torre at the change of command ceremony held Jan. 23 at Brown Parade Field.
Col. John Ives, garrison commander, presided over the ceremony. Ives began by talking about the difficulties of assuming command and the weight one can feel on their shoulders.
“Every previous commander in attendance can remember the moment and how the colors went from a stick and a flag to being the symbol of the true weight of command,” Ives said. “You probably saw Captain Beri’s shoulders lift slightly and then witnessed the slight dip in Captain De La Torre’s.”
Ives continued by saying how challenging it can be to take on the adventure of being a company commander. You’re not only responsible for your people and managing the team but you’re also responsible for accountability to the mission, equipment and instilling discipline when needed, he explained.
Before concluding his speech, Ives thanked Beri for her compassionate leadership and told De La Torre he has what it takes to command this unit.
“Captain Beri, I have never witnessed a captain as eager to show the depth of her love, compassion and caring,” Ives said. “I don’t think there’s a Soldier, family member or even a military working dog that can say they didn’t feel your caring approach.
“Capt. De La Torre, I have no doubt that you’re the right person for this difficult command. You have a great attitude and all the tools necessary to be the great leader these Soldiers deserve.”
Beri began her outgoing speech by recognizing everyone in attendance and said she was grateful for the experience including the laughter, tears and a couple harrowing moments. She highlighted some of her favorite memories and personally thanked those who helped her during her time in command.
“Even through the rough patches, we always managed to find a way to come together,” Beri said. “Like winning the best unit at Trunk-or-Treat, planning an annual football game – the Javelina Bowl – between the MPs and [Headquarters & Headquarters Company, USAG], promotions, fundraisers; and the thing I’ve been most honored to do – to reenlist so many phenomenal young people to continue their service to this great nation.”
Beri concluded by thanking all the people who have helped her along her command journey and provided De La Torre with a few parting words.
“There have been so many people that supported me and our detachments,” she said. “If I didn’t thank you specifically, please note how much I appreciated you all.
“Capt. De La Torre, the wisdom I can impart is simple, if you take care of your people, they will take care of you.”
De La Torre began by expressing his deep sense of honor and responsibility as he assumes the role of commander. He continued by thanking leadership for the trust they placed in him.
“To the Soldiers and leaders of the 18th MP and the 483rd Military Working Dog Detachments, as we embark on this journey together, know that discipline is the backbone of any effective unit, and it begins with each one of us,” De La Torre said. “As your commander, I am dedicated to promoting a culture of discipline, professionalism and accountability.”
De La Torre concluded by thanking his wife, son and in-laws for their support and the ability to put a smile on his face and give him joy no matter what. He also gave thanks for the opportunity to command.
“I want to express my gratitude for the opportunity to lead such an exceptional group of individuals,” he said. “Together we will face the challenges ahead with courage, resilience and a commitment to excellence. Thank you, Guardian Six, signing on.”
(Editor's note: For the complete photo album, visit 2024-01-23 18th MP and 483rd Detachment Change of Command | Flickr.)
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Fort Huachuca is home to the U.S. Army Intelligence Center of Excellence, the U.S. Army Network Enterprise Technology Command/9th Army Signal Command and more than 48 supported tenants representing a diverse, multiservice population. Our unique environment encompasses 946 square miles of restricted airspace and 2,500 square miles of protected electronic ranges, key components to the national defense mission.
Located in Cochise County, in southeast Arizona, about 15 miles north of the border with Mexico, Fort Huachuca is an Army installation with a rich frontier history. Established in 1877, the Fort was declared a national landmark in 1976.
We are the Army’s Home. Learn more at https://home.army.mil/huachuca/.
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