Photo By Quentin Johnson | Command Sgt. Maj. Joseph McFarlane, command sergeant major of the 2nd Brigade Combat...... read more read more
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FORT HOOD, Texas – For two years Command Sgt. Maj. Emmett Maunakea, from Hawaii, served as the 2nd Brigade Combat Team’s “Black Jack,” 1st Cavalry Division, senior enlisted advisor for the brigade and to many, a true mentor.
Maunakea, now assigned as the Program Executive Office (PEO) Soldier Command Sergeant Major, Fort Belvoir, Va., relinquished his responsibility June 24 during Black Jack’s Change of Command Ceremony here.
On Aug. 24, Command Sgt. Maj. Joseph McFarlane took the reigns as Black Jack’s Command Sergeant Major during a change of responsibility here. McFarlane was last assigned to Fort Wainwright, Alaska.
After 20 years from his first tour at Fort Hood, McFarlane is now back serving within the 1st Cavalry Division in what he calls “a fine division.”
“I am back in this fine division and having been selected as a brigade command sergeant major for such a fine team as Black Jack,” stated McFarlane.
During his speech, McFarlane thanked Black Jack commander Col. Robert Whittle Jr. for the welcome he and his family received when they arrived here.
“I am thankful for the warm reception we received here from Col. Whittle, it truly was the greatest reception we (McFarlane and wife) have seen during my career,” said McFarlane.
McFarlane commented on his excitement of joining a prestigious brigade with a historical name. “The name Black Jack is Awesome. It sounds unique and aggressive.”
He said the name suits the brigade and its achievements throughout history. It also reflects the dedication each troop in the brigade gives each day.
“The troopers before me are superb. They are truly America’s treasure,” explained McFarlane. “Serving them is an honor and one that I probably don’t deserve.”
McFarlane said for the next two years he will strive for success so each soldier will have a positive response to three questions of him: Can I trust you, are you committed and do you care about me?
Whittle stated he is fully confident in McFarlane’s leadership and excited to have him on the team. “When the Army selected McFarlane to become the Black Jack CSM, they had it right.”
“American noncommissioned officers are renowned for leadership, technical and tactical skills, values and work ethic,” added Whittle. “McFarlane’s leadership encompasses all those traits.”
“He solves problems and makes things happen, as a trusted advisor, he is my eyes and ears,” he said. “Its an honor to serve to serve with him.”
Likewise, McFarlane ended his speech by expressing his gratitude for the opportunity of working with the Black Jack Leadership.
“My wife and I look forward to building the combat team with Col. and Mrs. Whittle and you, the soldiers and families of this brigade,” added McFarlane.
McFarlane has completed all courses in the noncommissioned officers education system, holds an Associates Degree from Excelsior College, and has received numerous awards including the Bronze Star Medal for Valor and five Meritorious Service Medals.
| Date Taken: | 09.12.2012 |
| Date Posted: | 09.12.2012 17:30 |
| Story ID: | 94609 |
| Location: | FORT HOOD, TEXAS, US |
| Web Views: | 985 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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