WTU gains new leader

By Angie Brosman, RWBAHC Public Affairs OfficerMarch 18, 2010

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The Warrior Transition Unit on Fort Huachuca said farewell to one of its founders and welcomed its new commander during a change of command ceremony, March 9, at Murr Community Center.

Col. Carol Newman, commander, U.S. Army Medical Command, Fort Huachuca, served as the ceremony's presiding officer and was the first to take the podium. She recognized the achievements of the WTU under outgoing commander Capt. Brendan Donovan.

"Capt. Donovan's professional leadership has been instrumental with the transition of 125 Warriors in Transition," Newman said.

She also cited a significant accomplishment. Donovan co-authored a risk management and mitigation strategy ensuring safe travels for the Warriors in Transition which was adopted by the Department of Army. Finally, she wished Donovan and his family well as they prepare to embark on the next phase of their military career.

Newman then addressed incoming WTU Commander Capt. James Markham.

"Capt. Markham is no stranger to Fort Huachuca. He joins [the] MEDDAC family from the U.S. Army Military Intelligence Center of Excellence where he served as the operations chief," she said.

Newman spoke on Markham's professionalism and leadership and closed her comments with expectation to continue the distinction of excellence.

"I encourage you to continue to foster an environment conducive to the healing of our Warriors in Transition and preparation for their next phase of life," Newman said.

Donovan recalled the development of the WTU as its military and civilians came on board, the movement of the WTU from the MEDDAC to Murr Community Center, and the establishment of WTU barracks.

He thanked the close-knit professional staff, saying it was a great team, and he would miss all the different Military Occupational Specialties coming together and working as one. Most notably, Donovan thanked both God and his [Donovan's] family for seeing him through a fulfilling but difficult command.

Donovan is immediately headed to the Army Medical Department's Captains Career Course at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, and will be assigned to Fort Drum, N.Y., in early summer.