Photo By Petty Officer 1st Class Kleynia McKnight | Lt. Col. William S. Wozniak addresses the command, family and friends during the 525th...... read more read more
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GUANTANAMO BAY, Cuba – Rolling waves and a sandy beach served as the backdrop when Army Lt. Col. William Wozniak handed command of the 525th Military Police Battalion to Army Lt. Col. Alex Conyers just outside Joint Task Force Guantanamo's Camp America Aug. 5, 2008.
The 525th, originally constituted during World War II, was reactivated in October of 2004 to conduct detention operations as part of the Joint Detention Group for the JTF here. The 525th, along with the Navy Expeditionary Guard Battalion, have the responsibility of walking the blocks and ensuring the safe and humane care and custody of detained enemy combatants.
Army Maj. Gen. Keith Huber, the commander of U.S. Army South, presided over the ceremony, and praised Wozniak for his two-year tour of duty.
"People's perspectives become their reality. Here you exist in the most visible location in the world," said Huber. "Woz, if you're wondering if you made an impact, stop. You don't need to. Job well done."
Next, Navy Rear Adm. David M. Thomas, Jr., the commander of the JTF, addressed both the incoming and outgoing battalion commanders, and the Soldiers standing in ranks, company by company, in the sand.
"Lt. Col. Wozniak, farewell shipmate. It's been a true honor and privilege to serve with you," said Thomas. "Lt. Col. Conyers, welcome aboard. You'll find it a rewarding experience."
He then remarked on the Soldiers of the 525th, saying "these young men and women have done it right."
Wozniak began his remarks by thanking his Soldiers.
"To the Soldiers of the battalion, you guys look great," said Wozniak, before recapping his time as commander, listing the four principles of his leadership style: preservation of readiness, discipline, responsibility and accountability, living the Army values and enforcing set standards. He closed with his radio call sign.
"Warrior six, Vigilant six. Out."
Conyers kept his remarks short, saying he looked forward to taking over and reflecting on his last tour of duty here, back in 1991.
"It's been said that it's tough to get on and off this island," said Conyers. "It's been 17 years, and it's great to be back."
Wozniak will be assuming a staff position in the Office of the Provost Marshal in Washington, D.C.
www.jtfgtmo.southcom.mil
| Date Taken: | 08.08.2008 |
| Date Posted: | 08.13.2008 12:00 |
| Story ID: | 22450 |
| Location: | GUANTANAMO BAY, CU |
| Web Views: | 383 |
| Downloads: | 168 |
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