CSM Richardson takes 15th Regt. Signal Bde. responsibility

By Spc. Jason Jordan, 15th Regimental Signal Brigade Public AffairsAugust 15, 2011

CSM Richardson takes 15th Regt. Signal Bde. responsibility
FORT GORDON, Ga. -- (Aug.5, 2011) Col. Joseph Layton, 15th Regimental Signal Brigade commander, passes the noncommissioned officer sword from Command Sgt. Maj. Johnny Posey to Command Sgt. Maj. Ricky Richardson, where Richardson conducts his first ac... (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

FORT GORDON, Ga. -- (Aug.5, 2011)The 15th Regimental Signal Brigade bid farewell to one leader and welcomed another during a change of responsibility ceremony on Barton Field Aug. 5.

Command Sgt. Major Johnny Posey retired after 32 years of military service, relinquishing command to Command Sgt. Maj. Ricky Richardson.

“As a commander, you try to surround yourself with excellence, and I experienced that with Command Sgt. Maj. Posey. He has been the embodiment of a good leader and the Army values throughout his career,” said Col. Joseph Layton, 15th RSB Commander. “He has seen the Army change much over the years . . . through these changes has remained one constant " your professionalism and dedication to the NCO creed " the backbone of this Army.”

Posey, a native of Bessemer, Ala., joined the Army in November 1979. He has worked in over 13 different assignments, including multiple combat tours. His awards include the Bronze Star Medal (1OLC), Meritorious Service Medal (4OLC), Army Commendation Medal (4OLC), Army Achievement Medal (3OLC), Army Good Conduct Medal (9th Award), National Defense Service Medal with Bronze Star, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon (Fourth Award), Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon (5th Award) and the Drill Sergeant Identification Badge.

“I want to thank my Family for being in attendance today. You have had my deepest gratitude in this life; I could always count on you during my development as a man. Thanks to all Soldiers, especially those who have volunteered to serve since 9/11. I’ve always had a genuine care for the needs of our Soldiers, and Col. Layton has shared that concern and given me the freedom to do as I thought right. I am confident he and Richardson can take the unit to greater heights. Thanks to all who serve.”

Richardson, a native of Arlington, Ga., joined the Army in September 1981 and has seen more than 12 assignments during his career. His awards include the Bronze Star (1 Oak Leaf Cluster), Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (2OLC), Army Commendation Medal (9OLC), Joint Service Medal (10th Award), Army Achievement Medal (5 OLC), Meritorious Unit Award, Good Conduct Medal (10th Award), National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forced Expedition Medal, South West Asia Medal, Kosovo Campaign Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, NCO Professional Development Medal (3rd Award), USA Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon (5th Award) UN Medal, Saudi Liberation Medal and Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Drill Sergeant Badge, Parachutist Badge, Air Assault Badge, Combat Action Badge, Silver German Weapons Badge, Signal Corps Regimental Association Silver Order of Mercury and a Sergeant Morales Club Member since 1989.

“Thank you for entrusting me with the charge of this unit and the care of our Soldiers. I pay tribute to Command Sgt. Maj. Posey " a great leader with a successful career. To the Soldiers in my care, I will lead forward and remain both humble and vigilant. I take large responsibility with this position and I urge you all to achieve excellence in all that you do. Let’s roll.”