Photo By Tech. Sgt. Ashley Tyler | U.S. Air Force Col. Parker Wright addresses the audience after accepting command of...... read more read more
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More than 200 guests and participants gathered to witness a change of command ceremony rooted in U.S. military history. The symbolic tradition has survived more than 240 years, dating back to the initiation of the U.S. Army in 1775.
As the officiator of the ceremony, U.S. Army Lt. Gen. William Garrett III, U.S. European Command deputy commander, presented Baker with a medal after reflecting on her time as commander.
“Kristin, thank you and thanks to [your husband] for the past three years. Thank you for making the JAC a place where leaders are forged and our nation is warned,” said Garrett. “First, under your direction the organization established and integrated the Social Media Analysis Cell. Second, the JAC has doubled the amount of analysts. This, coupled with the increase in linguists has enabled the organization to more effectively support EUCOM’s theater campaign plan. We are sorry to lose [you]. You laid a legacy of excellence.”
Continuing on with his speech, Garrett offered words of advice for Wright.
“I’m excited about our new commander, Col. Parker Wright. Parker was Gen. Breedlove’s number one choice to take this command. I know you’re ready for this responsibility, and I know you’ll excel,” said Garrett. “Embrace the opportunity, be bold. For some simple guidance, take care of your Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, civilians and contractors. You’re empowered to do great things for our nation.”
After Garrett’s remarks, Baker expressed what the ceremony meant to her.
“The change of command is a military tradition of transferring authority from one commanding officer to another,” she said. “Change is actually a good thing. Without it, new and innovative concepts may not be recognized. I know you are gaining a fantastic leader in this process.”
Baker not only took the time to thank her leadership and NATO partners, she also thanked all personnel behind the scenes for their hard work and dedication.
“You continue to breathe life into these old buildings,” she said. “You personify the meaning of excellence.”
Immediately after the exchange of the unit flag, Wright took time to thank Baker and the JAC family for a warm welcome, and also the British, NATO and 501st Combat Support Wing community.
“I look forward to working with you all as I get up to speed on daily operations,” he said. “We will craft a plan of action together. As we do that, we must remain focused and vigilant. We must also collaborate and innovate to find new ways to do our work better and faster. We will continue to deliver world-class intelligence.”
Before taking command of the JAC, Wright was the commander of the 659th Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Group at Fort George G. Meade, Md.
Baker will continue leading in a joint environment at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C.
| Date Taken: | 07.06.2016 |
| Date Posted: | 08.05.2016 10:48 |
| Story ID: | 206206 |
| Location: | ABERDEEN CITY, GB |
| Web Views: | 858 |
| Downloads: | 1 |
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