District of Columbia Army National Guard holds 74th Troop Command's change of command ceremony

Photo By Staff Sgt. Tyrone Williams | District of Columbia Army National Guard holds 74th Troop Command's change of command ceremony, for incoming commander, Col. R. Brian Denton and outgoing commander, Col. Moses P. Robinson, May 20, 2023, at the D.C. Armory in Washington, D.C.   Robinson gave remarks at the ceremony to commemorate the change of command.  

WASHINGTON, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, UNITED STATES

05.20.2023

Story by Staff Sgt. Tyrone Williams 

DC National Guard

District of Columbia Army National Guard's (DCARNG) brigade, 74th Troop Command, holds a change of command ceremony, for incoming commander, Col. R. Brian Deaton, and outgoing commander, Col. Moses P. Robinson, May 20, 2023, on the drill floor of the D.C. National Guard (DCNG) Armory in Washington, D.C.

The ceremony began with the presentation of the colors accompanied by the DCARNG 257th Army Band.

The opening remarks were given by Army Brig. Gen. Leland D. Blanchard, DCARNG commander. He thanked Robinson for his many accomplishments and contributions.

‘With all the uncertainty over the past years with unprecedented events you had to lead through, you’ve done a phenomenal job,’ said Blanchard.

Blanchard also charged Deaton, the incoming commander, with upholding ‘three crucial areas: operational readiness, personnel readiness and making sure everyone knows who the DCNG is across the nation.’

Robinson received the Meritorious Service Medal. After receiving the award, Robinson gave remarks where he thanked his family for their support and encouraged Soldiers to carry on the DCNG mission.

‘The critic is not the one who counts,’ said Robinson during his remarks, quoting Theodore Roosevelt. ‘The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly.’

Robinson served as 74th Troop Command commander during various missions, such as COVID-19 testing kit preparation, U.S. Capitol Response, first amendment demonstration response and the most recent Presidential Inauguration.

The ceremony proceeded with the passing of the colors, signifying the transition of leadership, followed by Deaton addressing his new troops.

‘In order for the individual soldier to be successful, a soldier must live the creed, practice empathic leadership and be responsible,” said Deaton.

The ceremony ended with applause and cheers for the former commander, Robinson, and incoming commander, Deaton.

• Date Taken: 05.20.2023
• Date Posted: 05.30.2023 09:13
• Story ID: 445643
• Location: WASHINGTON, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, US