Photo By Staff Sgt. Edward Siguenza | Practice makes perfect as the U.S. Army color guard team of the 340th Brigade Support...... read more read more
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By STAFF SGT EDDIE SIGUENZA
California Army National Guard
SEASIDE, Calif. — The California Army National Guard’s 340th Brigade Support Battalion will continue its successful direction under new leadership following a March 17 Change of Command.
Lt. Col. Karstan L. Jack takes helm of the 340th, relieving Lt. Col. John T. Preston, who served as commander since October 2016. The ceremony took place at Soldier Field, Presidio of Monterey, in Monterey, California.
“The lineage of this organization can be traced back to World War II, fighting in the Philippines, and credited with being the first California Army National Guard unit to see combat in World War II when the unit was a tank company,” “Jack told his new peers and subordinates. “Our heritage must never be forgotten. And let it always remind us that we are warriors first, sustainers second.”
Jack leads an organization with roughly eight units, including supply, quartermasters, administrative and Public Affairs specialities. He currently serves as officer in charge of Joint Task Force Vigilance, Operation Guardian Support.
“A change of command is a real special event. We’re recognizing three important things. One is the achievements of (Lt. Col.) Preston over his time here, all his commitments,” said Col. Jesse L. Miller, commander, 115th Regional Support Group. “All the blood, sweat and tears he poured into the organization over his significant period of time.
“We’re also reflecting upon what’s coming forward in the future, and the potential for future service and leadership that the U.S. Army has recognized in Lt. Col. Jack.”
Added Miller, “We’re also recognizing the achievements … that all of the 340th brings to the fight. It wouldn’t be without you that this battalion wouldn’t come so far.”
When Preston took command, he returned to the unit he began his California National Guard career. After serving as a construction mechanic in the Navy Seabees, Preston enlisted in CalGuard in 1988 as a 340th wheeled vehicle repairer.
“In addition to all of your wartime training requirements, you provided outstanding service and support, both within the state and overseas, especially supporting the civil support missions, that we’ve done in the last few years,” Preston said. “You road marched thousands of miles, providing first rate sustainment, and at times using all our capabilities. You accomplished every mission in magnificent fashion with no accidents or injuries. That’s a phenomenal achievement.”
Preston closed out his remarks, stating “In the process, you established the 340th BSB as one of the go-to battalions in the state during times of need,” Preston told his Soldiers. “It has truly been my honor and privilege to serve with every one of you.”
| Date Taken: | 03.20.2019 |
| Date Posted: | 03.20.2019 15:01 |
| Story ID: | 315038 |
| Location: | SEASIDE, CALIFORNIA, US |
| Hometown: | MONTEREY, CALIFORNIA, US |
| Hometown: | SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA, US |
| Web Views: | 394 |
| Downloads: | 1 |
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