FORT HUACHUCA, Ariz. – The U.S. Army Garrison Headquarters & Headquarters Company (HHC) held its change of command ceremony where Capt. Frannie Bermudes relinquished her responsibilities to Capt. Hiram Gascot III at the Select Honor Guard facility on March 6.
Col. Mike Childs, garrison commander, presided over the ceremony. During his speech, Childs thanked Bermudes and recognized her leadership and commitment to the Soldiers in the company.
“There’s one thing everyone knows here about Captain Bermudes,” Childs said. “She’s always in the details. Whether it’s a complex mission or a routine task, she approaches everything with a meticulous planning, precision, and determination to get it right.”
Childs continued by talking about how Bermudes always has multiple plans and backups to those plans to cover any possible scenario that may arise.
“She doesn’t just make a plan, she makes five,” Childs said. “You ensure every possible scenario is covered … and it’s exactly what we need in a leader. That level of foresight prep has made a lasting impact on the company.”
Childs also highlighted the important work Bermudes has done in the community. Which included recruiting efforts, community engagements and telling the Army story.
“You’re seeing beyond the chain of command, you’re seeing those opportunities that are out there,” Childs said. “You’re engaging with the local community to tell the Army story, and this is especially important as we celebrate the Army’s 250th Birthday. A moment that reminds us of our responsibilities to inspire the next generation.”
Next, Childs welcomed Gascot to the team and expressed confidence in Gascot’s ability to lead the command and continue to build on its legacy.
“Welcome to the team, you’ll no doubt take HHC forward with your own God-given talents,” Childs said. “You’re a remarkable officer with a proven track record of leadership, and I cannot wait to see all the accomplishments for HHC as you command these fine Soldiers and help write the next chapter.”
Following Childs’ speech, Bermudes took to the podium and began by thanking leadership and her family for their support. She also spoke about the “profound sense of gratitude and pride” she has as the outgoing commander.
“It’s been 14 months since I accepted this role and what an incredible journey it has been – one I will absolutely cherish forever,” Bermudes said. “It’s been a roller coaster ride for sure, but with that being said; there are different types of roller coasters – a smooth steel coaster, and a rocky wooden coaster. This adventure felt like a bit of both, but the ride was worth it.”
Bermudes continued by highlighting the many accomplishments her Soldiers have achieved during her command. They honored over 500 fallen heroes, hosted over 40 religious support events, and supported more than 15 events with B Troop, 4th U.S. Cavalry Regiment (Memorial) in the community.
Before concluding her speech, Bermudes took time to thank 1st Sgt. Janos Aksz, HHC first sergeant, for his dedication to the Soldiers and the mission, and for the wisdom, guidance and mentorship he provided to the unit.
“First Sergeant, I am truly grateful for everything that you have done, and I look forward to witnessing the continued success of our Soldiers under your leadership,” Bermudes said. “[…] Thank you so much for being an exceptional leader, mentor and friend.”
Following the speech from Bermudes, Gascot took to the podium and began by thanking God, his family and garrison leadership for giving him the opportunity to command the company.
He continued by highlighting the Soldiers of HHC and the hard work they do every day to support the installation and community.
“To the Soldiers of HHC, Wardens, I want you to know that I have great respect for the work that you do day in and day out,” Gascot said. “You are the face of this installation, ensuring readiness, support, and effectiveness across a wide range of critical functions … Your efforts often go unseen, but they are vital to the success of this organization, the garrison and broader community as well.”
The ceremony concluded with the playing of the Army Song, an opportunity to say farewell to Bermudes and her family, and a welcome reception for Gascot and his family.
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Fort Huachuca is home to the U.S. Army Intelligence Center of Excellence, U.S. Army Network Enterprise Technology Command, 2-13th Aviation Regiment, Electronic Proving Ground, Joint Interoperability Test 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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