Change of Command For 160th Signal Brigade

By Spc. Monte Swift (USARCENT)November 20, 2009

A traditional Change of Responsibility Ceremony was held for Soldiers of the 160th Signal Brigade at the Zone 1 gym at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, Nov. 18, as they welcomed new leadership into their command.

Command Sgt. Maj. Kenneth Stockton replaced outgoing Command Sgt. Maj. Kevin Thompson, who has served as the command sergeant major for the 160th Signal Brigade since June of 2008.

Stockton, a native of Thomson, Ga., entered into U.S. Army in 1984. He received basic combat training at Fort Jackson, S.C., and advanced individual training at Fort Gordon, Ga. He has held many leadership positions throughout his career randing from squad leader to command sergeant major. His military education includes the Primary Leadership Development Course, Junior Leadership Maintenance Course, Tactical Communications Chief Course and Standardized Communication Security Custodian Course.

His awards and decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal (2nd Oak Leaf Cluster), Army Commendation Medal (Silver Oak Leaf), the Army Achievement Medal (2nd Oak Leaf cluster) and the Army Good Conduct Medal (8th Award).

Aca,!A"I look forward to serving with and alongside every one of you. Together, we can accomplish any task that we are faced with,Aca,!A? said Stockton. Aca,!A"The army expects full commitment from those who lead, train and care for its greatest asset; the Soldier. I am committed, and I look forward to serving as your command sergeant major,Aca,!A? he said.

Before Thompson passed on leadership to Stockton, he expressed his appreciation to his Soldiers.

Aca,!A"It has been an honor, a blessing and a privilege to have served as your command sergeant major. The Service to our nation could not be better exemplified than here in the 160th Signal brigade,Aca,!A? said Thompson. Aca,!A"Leading AmericaAca,!a,,cs sons and Daughters is the most rewarding experience a leader can ever have. I am truly humbled to have had the opportunity to work with such as incredible group of professionals.Aca,!A?

In his closing statement, Thompson further expressed his pride in his former brigade and offered advice to the incoming command sergeant major.

Aca,!A"You have before you a group of polished professionals who are extremely dedicated to meeting mission requirements,Aca,!A? said Thompson. Aca,!A"Continue to challenge them and raise the bar at every opportunity and I promise you they will never let you down.Aca,!A?