Photo By Staff Sgt. Sally Armstrong | Capt. Sabrina Mortell, commander of Fort Cavazos Law Enforcement Activity,...... read more read more
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FORT CAVAZOS, TX – A significant milestone was reached today as the Fort Cavazos Law Enforcement Activity (LEA) was officially activated into the Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion (HHBn), III Armored Corps (III AC), on Sept. 27, 2024, in a ceremony attended by military leaders, family members, and community partners.
The event was held at the III AC Headquarters on Fort Cavazos where the new unit mission is to enhance safety and security for the 550,000 Soldiers, family members, and civilians in the area.
The ceremony included remarks by Col. Jeremy E. Kerfoot, the Director of Emergency Services, Lt. Col. Michael Benner, the commander of HHBn, III AC, as well as the uncasing of the unit's guidon and the changing of the unit's shoulder sleeve insignia.
“As we activate this military police unit, the Fort Cavazos Law Enforcement Company Phantom Defenders, we honor the legacy of those who have served before us,” said Kerfoot. “Their sacrifices and dedication to justice, order, and security inspire us to carry forward the mission of safeguarding our Soldiers, our communities, and our nation.”
The LEA's task and purpose is to assist, protect, and defend the community here at Fort Cavazos. The unit is activating and standing with a new profound partnership with the Department of the Army civilian police, Directorate of Emergency Services and other first responders.
Their areas of emphasis will consist of a law enforcement patrol branch, patrol desk operations, military police investigators, traffic accident investigators, civil police liaisons, wildlife conservations, physical security, training, and day to day operations.
“The Phantom Defenders are more than just enforcers of law; they are guardians of the peace,” said Kerfoot. “They uphold the principles of justice and ensure that the rule of law prevails, even in the most challenging environments."
He went on to say each member is equipped with the skills, training, and support needed to excel in this critical role.
During the ceremony, Benner and Command Sgt. Maj. Torrian Peterson, the HHBn command sergeant major, approached the formation and changed the Phantom Defender’s shoulder insignia to the III AC's caltrop patch, to signify their welcome and inclusion to the Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion.
"This is a time-honored Army tradition that bonds this new organization and its Soldiers to our Corps," Benner said.
The caltrop is the heraldic symbol of Ill AC, dating back to 1922, when it was approved by the U.S. War Department. It represents a simple, centuries old weapon composed of four points, designed to always have one point facing up. Throughout history, many variations were used as deployable obstacles to slow the advance of mounted troops.
“Honestly, I cannot think of a more perfect organizational insignia for the LEA, as modern-day law enforcement uses variations of this device, typically in the form of road spikes,” said Benner.
As the ceremony concluded, attendees were invited to a reception hosted by Cpt. Sabrina Mortell and 1st Sgt. Devon Robinson, LEA command team, providing an opportunity to celebrate this new chapter in Fort Cavazos' commitment to security and community service.
| Date Taken: | 09.27.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 09.27.2024 16:20 |
| Story ID: | 481977 |
| Location: | FORT CAVAZOS, TEXAS, US |
| Web Views: | 1,142 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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