Task Force Anzio replaces Task Force Grizzly as U.S. National Command Element

Courtesy Photo | Army Col. Richard Stevens delivers a speech during a change of command ceremony at Kandahar Airfield, May 26. Stevens succeeded Army Col. R. Stephen Williams as commander of U.S. National Command Element, Regional Command (South). (Photos by Sgt. Tony Spain, 22nd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment)  

KANDAHAR, AFGHANISTAN

05.30.2007

Courtesy Story

Combined Joint Task Force - 82 PAO

By Sgt. LeeAnn Lloyd
22nd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan - Task Force Anzio replaced Task Force Grizzly as the U.S. National Command Element in Regional Command (South) during a Change of Command ceremony at Kandahar Air Field, May 26.

Army Col. Richard Stevens succeeded Army Col. R. Stephen Williams as commander of the U.S. NCE on his 25th anniversary in the Army.

"Twenty-five years ago, on this very date, I raised my right hand and was sworn in as an officer in the United States Army," said Stevens. I can think of nothing more fitting for me, personally, to remember that event a quarter century ago than by the absolute distinction and rare opportunity of commanding a unit directly engaged in winning the War on Terror."

Stevens assumed command of a "melting pot" of troops who offer the expertise of combined branches of service, to include the Navy and the Air Force. These service members were sent to Kandahar from multiple locations throughout the Central Command area of responsibility.

Stevens noted that the new face of the U.S. NCE has a historical tie to the battle at Anzio, Italy, during the second World War. The battle was fought not only by troops of the 82nd Airborne Division but also by the 36th Engineer Brigade, which Stevens recently commanded at Fort Hood, Texas.

"In remembrance of coalition forces that fought at Anzio, we have chosen 'Task Force Anzio' as the new identity of the U.S. National Command Element at Kandahar," Stevens said.

Stevens remarked that at Anzio, when it appeared the Soldiers had doubts, the battle cry that resonated amongst them was 'Stand and Fight.'

"Today we commit to 'stand and fight' beside our coalition partners, but more importantly, beside the strong, brave, and independent people of Afghanistan that are standing and fighting against the enemies of security and progress," Stevens said.

Williams made sure to recognize the hard work and dedication put in by TF Grizzly over their year in the country.

"From operations such as Mountain Fury to Mountain Thrust, Medusa, Achilles, and others, Task Force Grizzly has supported in some form or fashion. Soldiers of Grizzly have performed superbly in all areas of operations, support, planning and logistics," Williams said. "I can say Task Force Grizzly made a difference to the people of Afghanistan and our alliance forces."

Stevens' most recent assignments include command of the 36th Engineer Brigade at Fort Hood, Texas, June 2006. Prior to that he served as deputy commander of the Gulf Region Division, United States Army Corps of Engineers, Baghdad, Iraq, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

• Date Taken: 05.30.2007
• Date Posted: 05.30.2007 06:28
• Story ID: 10553
• Location: KANDAHAR, AF