Photo By Sgt. 1st Class Lisa Litchfield | Retired Maj. Gen. Mark McQueen, former commanding general, 108th Training Command...... read more read more
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On November 16, 2021, the Joint Atrium, Marshall Hall, Fort Bragg, N.C., rang with applause as Maj. Gen. Mark E. Black donned his second general officer star, signifying his promotion from brigadier general to major general.
Hosted by retired Maj. Gen. Mark McQueen, former commanding general of the 108th Training Command, the ceremony was small, but full of guests who had lasting, durable connections with Black, the current director of operations for J3 (Wartime) United States Forces Korea.
McQueen’s deep connection to Black was evident during his opening remarks as he spoke about ‘Team Black’.
“Angela, Katie and Sarah, you guys are just amazing,” enthused McQueen. “You have stood the test of time, you have carried the heaviest rucksack of all and you’ve supported your husband and your father during difficult times. I just want to pause and commend you and thank you for your service to our nation, it’s been remarkable, extraordinary and exemplary and I want to thank you for bringing us to this day because of your investment in loving Mark has made this day a reality.”
Black’s leadership traits and deep commitment to his country were extolled by McQueen as he complimented the newly promoted two-star general on his strategic vision, decisiveness, courage, integrity, accountability, drive, skill in planning, ability to make things happen and his effective use of his Soldiers and leaders to achieve mission and unit objectives.
“Mark has done everything exactly right,” McQueen stated. “Leadership is not a science, it’s an art and there’s a balance to how you drive skills and talents and education to how you apply them to the formations that you’re in.”
Following McQueen’s remarks, it was time for those attending both virtually and in person to witness the official removal of the one-star shoulder boards and the presentation of two-star shoulder boards to outwardly represent Black’s accomplishment.
The crowd rose to stand at attention while the promotion orders were posted and McQueen stood in for Black’s family in the presentation of the new rank.
Ceremonial honors followed the presentation of rank as Black received not only his new two-star flag, but also was honored with the playing of two-star ruffles and flourishes to mark the occasion.
Once the formal recognitions were complete, it was time for Black to conclude the ceremony with special thanks to those who assisted in making the day successful, as well on thoughts on his accomplishment and those who had stood beside him, serving with and loving him as mentors, family, and friends.
Black’s mother attended the ceremony in person, “she was with me 32 years ago when I raised my hand for commission,” Black explained, “she’s here today.” Black went on to explain that even now, when he travels, he calls to let her know he made his plane, and again to assure her he’s safely at his final destination.
Black spent the majority of his speech thanking each and every member in attendance, both virtually and in-person, ensuring that they were aware that he knew he would not be standing in front of them alone.
“While today I’m kind of in the spotlight, so to speak,” Black said, “my intent is, as you can see, to really shine that light on you, on the folks that are here and tuned in because literally and figuratively, and this is what’s most important, if it wasn’t for all of you, I wouldn’t be in this position that I’m in today, I’m just so incredibly thankful.”
Black concluded his ceremony by expressing his excitement for the tasks ahead.
“It’s an incredible privilege to be able to lead our great Soldiers,” Black explained. “As an Army we have only one mission and that’s to fight and win our Nation’s wars. I stand here before you today feeling very humble, very honored, and very excited for this opportunity that’s been given to me. Thank you so much.”
| Date Taken: | 11.16.2021 |
| Date Posted: | 11.29.2021 12:03 |
| Story ID: | 409738 |
| Location: | FORT BRAGG, NORTH CAROLINA, US |
| Web Views: | 169 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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