16th Sust. Bde. welcomes new commander

Soldiers, family, friends and civilians of the 21st Theater Sustainment Command’s 16th Sustainment Brigade welcomed their new commander during a change of command ceremony Dec. 11 on Smith Barracks in Baumholder.

Col. Darren Werner relinquished command of the 16th Sust. Bde. to Col. J. Scott Murray, who served most recently as the division G4 officer in charge for the 25th Infantry Division out of Schofield Barracks, Hawaii.

Werner used the ceremony to praise his Soldiers for their two years of dedicated service under his command, including a nine-month deployment supporting NATO’s Training Mission-Afghanistan.

“Two years ago this brigade changed command, and to think back to that time, it is easy to recognize the amazing accomplishments of our Soldiers,” Werner said during the ceremony.  “In that time there have been many Soldiers who have come and gone, many missions accomplished and a single consistency — our Soldiers serve with pride, confidence, integrity and compassion.”

The 21st TSC’s commanding general, who presided over the ceremony, highlighted the achievements of Werner and his Soldiers.

“Leading such a successful rotation would itself be an accomplishment to be proud of, but this command team also simultaneously led a complex brigade transformation,” said Maj. Gen. John R. O’Connor, the commanding general of the 21st TSC.

While deployed, Werner “oversaw detailed planning and execution for the brigade headquarters relocation as well as several subordinate units well ahead of schedule,” O’Connor said.

O’Connor welcomed Murray and his family to “Team 21.”

“For a few months I’ve had him at the headquarters where he has been critical in helping us establish a solid plan for implementing the Army’s Ready and Resilient Campaign,” O’Connor said. “In the short time we’ve had to work together here and our time together in Iraq, (Murray) has definitely impressed me as a leader who will continue what has truly become a legacy of excellence at the Knight’s Pride brigade.”

“My first priority will be maintaining and improving the combat readiness of this brigade,” Murray told the audience. “To do anything less would be a dereliction of my duty.”

During his speech, Murray thanked the families for their shared sacrifice, commitment and service to their country.
“You represent the best our nation has to offer,” Murray said. “I am deeply honored and humbled to serve as your commander.”