Photo By Eric Pilgrim | Brig. Gen. Steven McLaughlin enjoys “pulling the string” of an artillery cannon...... read more read more
Friends and family members celebrated Brig. Gen. Aaron Walter’s nine years of service at 100th Training Division while welcoming his replacement, Brig. Gen. Steven McLaughlin, to the position during a sometimes windy change of command ceremony on Brooks Parade Field Nov. 2.
As host of the traditional event, 80th Training Command Commander Maj. Gen. Bruce Hackett praised the work of the Soldiers under Walter’s leadership during a time of major transformation.
“I am enthralled by the professionalism and the level of commitment, collaboration and coordination you 100th Soldiers and civilians have displayed on all fronts,” said Hackett. “Your efforts have enabled us to build a close relationship with the Fort Knox community and being recognized as being one of the best training divisions in the Army Reserves.”
Hackett praised Walter for his efforts in commanding the division.
“You’ve set the division on a successful course and we all thank you for a job well done,” said Hackett. “From my observations, I know this division is in great shape with the outstanding leadership of Brig. Gen. Walter, and I look forward to continuing that momentum under Brig. Gen. McLaughlin.”
Members of the unit, along with members of 100th Army Band, watched as Walter passed the colors to McLaughlin, signifying his relinquishment of the command. Walter announced he is retiring and said he is looking forward to spending more time with his wife, Maureen, in their Alexandria, Virginia, home.
“It is a great day to be in the Army at Fort Knox, Kentucky. Certainly, it is a great day for the Walter and McLaughlin families as we take another step in our respective American journeys,” said Walter.
Under Walter’s leadership, the unit transitioned from an operations support organization in 2016 to what it is today – the leader development organization for the entire Army Reserve.
Hackett told the Soldiers and those in attendance that McLaughlin is the right commander to take the helm of the unit from Walter.
“Steven, welcome to the premier training division and the 100th team,” said Hackett. “Your truly impressive list of accomplishments, to include your multiple deployments, sustainment expertise, and educational experience make you the right fit for these exceptional Soldiers.”
McLaughlin thanked Walter for his example and said he was humbled to take command of the unit.
“I am truly honored in joining the team. Command is both an honor and privilege as well as a great responsibility,” said McLaughlin. “I will give you my 100% as your commanding general. We have a bright future and many challenges as the Army focuses on modernization, emerging threats, and developing our leaders from talent management in the coming years.
“We will do our part to contribute to this and build readiness in our formations.”
After the ceremony, McLaughlin and his son, Ryan, enjoyed the opportunity to fire an artillery round with the Soldiers who participated in the ceremony as the salute battery.
| Date Taken: | 11.04.2019 |
| Date Posted: | 11.04.2019 16:23 |
| Story ID: | 350440 |
| Location: | FORT KNOX, KENTUCKY, US |
| Web Views: | 102 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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