Two distinct paths converged at the same ending point Monday afternoon as Command Sgt. Major Mark Harvey not only relinquished responsibility as the Fort Irwin garrison command sergeant major but also retired after 32 years of active-duty military service.
With the words "Army Strong" serving as the oft-repeated theme throughout the ceremony at the Sandy Basin Community Center, Fort Irwin garrison commander Col. Jim Chevallier told Command Sgt. Major Harvey, "You have made the words, 'Army Strong,' more than just a recruiting slogan."
No one at Fort Irwin has done more to improve the quality of life for Soldiers, families and civilians than Command Sgt. Major Harvey, Col. Chevallier said.
"On any given day at the headquarters it never ceased to amaze me the number of people that kind of lined up in the hallway for time with Sgt. Major Harvey," he said. "A vast majority of them at that particular time in their lives were facing difficult periods and somehow when they emerged out of that office and went on with the rest of the day somehow they all felt better prepared to deal with those challenges."
Command Sgt. Major Harvey's career tells a story of selfless service, sacrifice and dedication, which are the hallmarks of the Army and the Army's non-commissioned officers corps, Col. Chevallier said.
"When the Army's rolls are called tomorrow, you'll no longer be present in our ranks, but based on your service you've made a lasting impact on a countless number of Soldiers, family members and civilians that you have touched," Col. Chevallier said. "Thank you for your service. Army Strong! Hooah!"
As he gave his farewell remarks, Command Sgt. Major Harvey reflected on all those who had mentored him throughout his 32-year career, paying special tribute to Command Sgt. Major Jimmy Johnson, the Corps command sergeant major at Fort Hood, Texas when he reported there as a private in 1979.
"Command Sgt. Major Johnson inspired me to always a 'know and do' approach," he said. "Upon seeing Command Sgt. Major Johnson perform his duties, I was totally impressed. I knew at that moment one day I, too, would serve as a command sergeant major."
The leadership he was exposed to as a private shaped his leadership style throughout his career, Command Sgt. Major Harvey said, adding it was a leadership style that was "hard but fair."
"Throughout my career nothing has really changed for Soldiers," he said. "They still ask that their basic needs be met. One of those basic needs is quality leadership, leadership that genuinely cares about them, treats them with dignity and respect, enforces the standard and leadership that they can trust."
Command Sgt. Major Harvey said it is with bittersweet emotions that he and his wife, Sarah, leave the Army and the community they have known for the past four years.
"One thing I have learned over my life is that no one succeeds alone," he said. "Col. Chevallier, it has been a pleasure to serve with both you and Mrs. Chevallier. Sir, you are a true officer and a gentleman."
As he concluded his farewell remarks, Command Sgt. Major Harvey paid special tribute to his wife, Sarah, as he said, "Without her by my side and her love, I would not have come close to even being so successful. Sarah has been my rock, my teammate and my partner. Thank you for being such a great Army spouse and one true friend in my life."
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