Photo By Capt. Aaron Smith | Col. Richard A. Wholey Jr., Commander, 678th ADA BDE, South Carolina National Guard,...... read more read more
ANSBACH, Germany – The official beginning of the “Phoenix Brigade’s” deployment to support Operation Atlantic Resolve commenced with a transfer of authority ceremony held here Nov. 28, 2018.
During the ceremony, the 174th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, Ohio Army National Guard received authority from the 678th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, South Carolina Army National Guard, for a rotational air defense artillery brigade in Germany, in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve.
The ceremony included the official casing of the colors for the 678th ADA BDE, and the uncasing of the colors for the 174th ADA BDE, signifying the transition of authority between the two Army National Guard units.
Over the course of their nine-month deployment, the 678th ADA BDE participated in five major training exercises, and established the Army’s newest air defense battalion, the 5-4 Air Defense Artillery Battalion.
Col. Richard Wholey, commander of the outgoing unit, the 678th ADA BDE, spoke with pride about the accomplishments of his unit and thanked them for their efforts.
“You volunteered not knowing what to expect, left your families, employers, your way of life for the greater good,” said Wholey. “We thank you, my family thanks you, your Army thanks you, and your country thanks you”.
Serving under the 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command, the 174th ADA BDE’s mission will consist of the command and control of short range air defense artillery formations in Europe, including the 5-7 Air Defense Artillery Battalion, and the recently activated 5-4 Air Defense Artillery Battalion.
Col. Thomas E. Moore, the 174th ADA BDE commander, thanked the outgoing unit for their commitment and incredible work they conducted during the last nine months.
“I am truly humbled to stand with you today,” said Moore. “The 678th has created a high ceiling that is our new floor”.
As part of the rotational mission, the 174th ADA BDE will conduct joint and multinational training exercises designed to enhance unity of effort with allied partners.
“This is an incredible opportunity for our force to continue to build the relationships and partnerships established by our predecessors,” said Moore as he addressed his formation. “I am privileged to be a part of this great organization, I am proud to lead you, and even prouder to serve with you.”
In attendance were local German Mayors and regional and representatives as well as United States Army Europe (USAREUR) Deputy Commanding General Maj. Gen. Andrew Rohling and 263rd Army Air Missile Defense Command (AAMDC), from South Carolina, Deputy Commanding General Brig, Gen. Timothy J. Sheriff.
Col. David E. Shank, commander of the 10th AAMDC, spoke during the ceremony, commending the success of the 678th ADA BDE, and welcomed the 174th ADA BDE to Germany.
“We are excited to have you, and know very well that you and the 678th ADA BDE have completed a very thorough and deliberate relief in place,” said Shank. “We will continue to refine systems and processes, all in an effort to support our higher headquarters by setting the theater, being ready, and continuing to support our allies and partners.”
Operation Atlantic Resolve aims to ensure peace and stability in the Eastern European NATO countries. Since April 2014, U.S. Army Europe has led land forces efforts on behalf of the U.S. military, by conducting continuous, enhanced multinational training and security cooperation activities with allies and partners in Eastern Europe. The training events improve interoperability, strengthen relationships and trust among allied armies, contribute to regional stability, and demonstrate U.S. commitment to NATO.
| Date Taken: | 11.28.2018 |
| Date Posted: | 11.29.2018 06:33 |
| Story ID: | 301551 |
| Location: | DE |
| Web Views: | 885 |
| Downloads: | 1 |
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