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FORT LEE, Va. (June 7, 2012) -- The Army Logistics University’s 71st Transportation Battalion hosted a change of command ceremony Friday in ALU’s multi-purpose room, where Lt. Col. Kevin M. Holton took charge of the organization from Lt. Col. Stephanie Gradford.
Col. Mark A. McCormick, ALU commandant, handed the guidon to Holton during the ceremony.
After the change of command, McCormick highlighted the efforts of Gradford as she helped establish the battalion within the university.
“She took command of the 71st just prior to the first anniversary of the formation of ALU,” he continued. “With that, she inherited some headaches that commanders of established units don’t usually face. She developed many processes and procedures from scratch. She served many bosses, was pulled in many directions and presented with very significant challenges.”
Gradford was the right person to lead the battalion during this period of growth, said McCormick.
“She most certainly had a hand in shaping all of our future logistics leaders, and for that, I thank her,” he said.
Taking time to thank her Family and those who helped her throughout her assignment, Gradford said that command was one of the most fulfilling and challenging experiences of her career.
“I’ve been blessed to work with outstanding Soldiers and leaders throughout the Army Logistics University and Fort Lee,” she said. “You all helped me accomplish my main goal, which is to take care of Soldiers and their Families and to make the organization better.”
McCormick also took time to welcome Holton into the fold.
“It’s truly an honor to welcome Lt. Col. Kevin Holton and his Family to the ALU team,” he said. “Kevin has some big shoes to fill, but I am sure he will do an outstanding job and help us continue to take ALU to the next level.”
Holton thanked McCormick for the confidence placed in him and said he’ll do his best at command. He also took time to thank his Family and future co-workers at ALU and Fort Lee.
“To my new friends at Fort Lee, thank you for allowing me to be part of your team,” he said. “I look forward to serving and working with each and every one of you.”
The actual story can be found in the Fort Lee newspaper, the Traveller, at: http://www.fortleetraveller.com/.
Related Links
Fort Lee Traveler; Holton Takes Command of 71st Trans Battalion
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