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A Farewell Commentary
It seems like just yesterday that I arrived to Fort Detrick to be the Garrison Command Sergeant Major. This assignment was new to me but I welcomed the challenge. As I engulfed myself in the world of Garrison operation, my job was made very easy by the people of this community. There was just an abundance of fine professionals who were eager to show me what Fort Detrick was all about. They did so in a world class manner. I quickly found this installation to be quite unique, small in size but a giant in terms of its contributions in support of the Army's mission. The Frederick community was no different. The partnerships between non-profit organizations, local businesses, as well as local, state, and congressional leaders was like none that I have seen before. It's truly a great feeling for Soldiers to have great support on and off the installation.
The culture of providing quality service has been embraced across this installation and we have spread that attitude to our wonderful partners in the Frederick community. In my short time here I have seen a very innovative and creative workforce like no other. During the past year we have gone through some changes but we still forge forward to provide the best possible service to our Soldiers, their families and our mission partners. When we transitioned from MEDCOM to IMCOM, you did it with little to no disruption in Garrison operations. As a nation we face some fundamentally difficult times, but you continue to prevail and inspire in your efforts to make this a great place to live and work.
I will recall a few events where you, the Garrison team, displayed your commitment to an installation of excellence: Soldier Shows, wounded warrior recognition, monthly ethnic observances, exceptional family member programs, safety days, countless community outreach events, health promotions and the list goes on. The fact that this installation can do the things that matter and accomplish the mission in both good and difficult times is a testament to your professionalism, team work, dedication and hard work. During one of our command and staff meetings our Garrison Commander said something that keeps us focused, he said "AT THE END OF THE DAY, what we do should have value to our Soldiers, their families and our mission partners; if not, we need to adjust."
Fort Detrick's motto "One Team, One Mission" says it all. Being surrounded by professionals that understand their mission is to provide the best possible service to the community no matter where they live or work has been inspiring and made my job easier. Ella Wheeler Cox once said "It is possible for you to do whatever you choose, if you first get to know who you are and are willing to work with a power that is greater than us to do it". The work force of Garrison Fort Detrick knows themselves and is already doing things to set them apart from any other installation. Our great Army selected me for another command in Missouri; although I would like to stay a bit longer, duty calls. I thank you for your support, hard work, continued devotion to the mission, and for allowing me to be part of your team. I am humble and proud for the time I served as your Garrison Command Sergeant Major and I expect nothing but great things from you in the future. "One Team, One Mission".