KAISERSLAUTERN, Germany " Although a change-of-command ceremony is often about the symbolic exchange of roles between two officers, one relinquishing and one taking command, it often provides insight into the irreplaceable support network that makes a Soldier and a unit function.
The change-of-command ceremony here, June 16, for the 39th Movement Control Battalion, 16th Sustainment Brigade, 21st Theater Sustainment Command, whose motto of “We’ll Carry You” proved thoroughly appropriate for the occasion as each officer took time to recognize those who have made them and the 39th MCB successful.
Col. Keith Sledd, the commander of the 16th Sustainment Brigade, presided over the ceremony and took the time to recognize the Soldiers and Families of the 39th MCB and the vital support they provide while highlighting the bravery of those who serve.
“You are special because you represent less than one percent of American citizens who serve in the Armed Forces. In my mind, that makes you the top one percent of our nation and the next greatest generation,” said Sledd.
“For the success of the battalion and the illusion that I actually knew what I was doing, I have a lot of people to thank,” said Lt. Col. Lee English, the outgoing commander of the 39th MCB. “To the officers, warrants, [noncommissioned officers], and Soldiers, I can’t thank you enough. Your expertise, hard work and can-do attitude made this battalion function.”
In addition to recognizing those wearing the uniform, English also highlighted the unique and instrumental role that civilians play in carrying out the unit’s mission.
“While the Army prides its [noncommissioned officer] Corps as the backbone of the Army, the civilians of 39th MCB provide that steadfast, mission accomplishment mindset here in Europe,” added English. “I can’t say enough about these quiet professionals who execute the battalion’s mission every day.”
Although Lt. Col. Dan Williamson is at the beginning of his tenure as commander of the 39th MCB, he thanked his family for their support throughout his career.
“Thanks to my wife Chris, who always stands beside me and makes it possible for me to be a Soldier. Without her, I would have fallen by the wayside years ago,” said Williamson.
Williamson also took time to recognize and thank his mother, Betty Williamson, who traveled from northern Idaho for the ceremony. Last but certainly not least, Williamson recognized the Soldiers of the 39th MCB.
“Most importantly thanks to the Soldiers of the 39th MCB standing before us today. You look amazing,” said Williamson as he cast eyes on his new battalion.
The 39th MCB consists of a Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment on Kleber Kaserne in Kaiserslautern, Germany along with the 66th Transportation Company and the 624th, 627th, and 635th Movement Control Teams distributed throughout Germany providing support for U.S. Army Europe and U.S. Army Africa.
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