Photo By Tamara Cario | Maj. Gen. Richard J. Gallant (left) accepts the organizational colors from Gen. Lori...... read more read more
FORT EUSTIS, Va. – Joint Task Force Civil Support welcomed its new commanding general, Army Maj. Gen. Richard J. Gallant, during a change of command ceremony at Seay Plaza, on Fort Eustis, July 29.
Gallant becomes the sixth commander in the 15-year history of the command, replacing Army Maj. Gen. William F. Roy, who is retiring.
“Maj. Gen. Rich Gallant is no stranger to CBRNE enterprise and to the defense support of civil authorities. He is the perfect choice to lead this great organization,” said Air Force General Lori J. Robinson, commander of North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM), who officiated the ceremony. “You know the right person has been picked when the out-going commander looks you straight in the eye and he says, ‘I can think of no better person to lead this organization after me.’”
Speaking to the JTFCS personnel, Gallant said, “I’ve been personally fortunate to observe your excellence over the past few years. At each turn, I’ve witnessed the dedication and efficiency with which you execute every single one of your missions of saving lives, mitigating injury and providing that critical support tour communities during their most critical time of need.”
Roy, a native of Vermont, will retire from the Army after 34 years of service. During his years in the Army, Roy has commanded at the Platoon, Company, Battalion and Brigade levels. He deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom on four separate occasions, including Battalion and Brigade commands.
“I love serving with service members. I was born to be a soldier.” said Roy. "These two years have been a tremendous experience to be with you all. I am truly blessed."
The change of command ceremony is rich with historical traditions and significance that dates back to the days of knighthood. The unit’s flag, which is a symbol of its history, is also used to represent the change of command and identify the commander to each service member. During the ceremony, Roy passed the colors to Gallant, signifying the transfer of authority.
Gallant, a native of Lawrence, MA, joined the Army National Guard in 1981 and has served in Panama, Iraq, Kuwait and Afghanistan. His most recent assignment was the Special Assistant to Director, Army National Guard Liaison for Force Structure and Strategic Policy at The Pentagon.
“I will endeavor each and every day to ensure that we continue to grow as a successful high performing organization.” said Gallant.
JTF-CS anticipates plans and integrates U.S. Northern Command chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear operations. JTF-CS provides command and control for designated Department of Defense specialized response forces to assist local, state, federal and tribal partners in saving lives, preventing further injury, and providing critical support to enable community recovery.
Additional information about JTF-CS and the capabilities of the Defense CBRN Response Force can be found online here: http://www.jtfcs.northcom.mil/JTFCS.aspx.
| Date Taken: | 07.29.2016 |
| Date Posted: | 08.16.2016 11:33 |
| Story ID: | 207267 |
| Location: | NEWPORT NEWS, VIRGINIA, US |
| Web Views: | 248 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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