FORT BLISS, Texas – The 1st Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, hosted a Change of Command and a Change of Responsibility ceremony on Thursday, June 21, 2024. The ceremonies marked the transition for the storied 'Regulars' of the 6th Infantry Regiment, whose legacy of impactful leadership precedes them.
U.S. Army Lt. Col. Trinidad N. Chavez, the outgoing commander, handed over the reins to Lt. Col. James D. Small. Simultaneously, Command Sgt. Maj. Shalim Guzman passed his duties to Command Sgt. Maj. Christopher A. Coyle. The back-to-back ceremonies were attended by soldiers, family members, and dignitaries, highlighting the battalion's enduring legacy and future aspirations.
During his tenure, Chavez led the 1st Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment through critical missions, including a successful rotation to the European theater. His leadership ensured the battalion’s readiness and operational effectiveness, demonstrating the battalion's motto, "Regulars, By God!" in every aspect of their service.
"I want to thank all the regulars, the brave men and women that make up this organization," Chavez said. "Today's Regulars are the most prepared and lethal combined-arms battalion in the 1st Armored Division and the United States Army."
U.S. Army Col. Dwight Domengeaux Jr., commander of the 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, praised Chavez's leadership and the battalion's achievements.
"As an Armored Brigade commander, observing Lt. Col. Chavez, I quickly learned the value of disciplined, well-trained, and highly motivated infantry like those commanded by Regular 6," Domengeaux said. "They are expert infantry and a cohesive team commanded by one of the Army's most talented officers. Although the Regulars are losing a phenomenal leader in Lt. Col. Chavez, I have no doubt that the battalion will continue thriving as professionals and as a team under the command and care of Lt. Col. James Small,"
The 6th Infantry Regiment has a rich history of valor and service, participating in historical conflicts such as the War of 1812, the Mexican–American War, the Civil War, the Indian Wars, both World Wars, the Vietnam War, and recent operations in the Middle East. The regiment's storied past is a testament to its resilience and unwavering dedication to duty.
One of the regiment's most famous moments came during the Battle of Chippawa in the War of 1812. British Major General Phineas Riall mistook the approaching American soldiers for militia, only to realize they were seasoned regulars. His exclamation, "Those are Regulars, By God!" has since become the regiment's proud motto, symbolizing their disciplined and tenacious spirit.
The 1st Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment's recent contributions in Bulgaria, located in Southeastern Europe along the Black Sea under Chavez's command, further exemplify this legacy. Their deployment was crucial in strengthening the NATO alliance at Headquarters Multinational Division South East, enhancing interoperability with partner nations and regional security.
"To the Soldiers of the Regular Battalion-you look great! Thank you for your efforts over the last two weeks," said U.S. Army Lt. Col. James D. Small, the incoming commander of the 1st Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division. "I am honored to join your ranks and pledge to give you my all every single day. I look forward to adding to the tremendous history of this battalion with you."
Command Sgt. Maj. Shalim Guzman, who served alongside Chavez, reflected on the honor of leading the battalion's non-commissioned officers and soldiers.
"It has been a privilege to serve with the warriors of the 1-6 Infantry Regiment," Guzman said. "I am confident Command Sgt. Maj. Coyle will continue to lead this battalion with the same level of excellence."
Command Sgt. Maj. Christopher A. Coyle, the new senior enlisted leader, expressed his enthusiasm and dedication to the role.
"I am deeply honored to join the 1st Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment," Coyle said. "I look forward to working with the exceptional soldiers of this battalion and continuing our proud legacy."
As the ‘Regulars’ continue to train and prepare for future missions, their storied history and steadfast commitment to duty will undoubtedly guide them forward.
The 1st Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment's rich history and continued excellence serve as a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of the U.S. Army. Their dedication to duty and country ensures that they remain "Regulars, By God!" in every sense of the phrase.
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