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Like every other unit, the history, traditions and accomplishments of the 230th Military Police Company are embodied in its colors.
But, as the colors of the “Warmasters” were passed during the unit’s change of command ceremony Jan. 28 in Sembach, there was a sense that something even more exceptional was being passed from the outgoing commander, Capt. Joshua Larson, on to the new company commander, Capt. Nicholas Ingrao.
As the ceremony progressed, there were many attempts to define what it is that makes the 230th MP Co. so exceptional.
“Why are the Warmasters such an elite organization, respected and admired by so many?” asked Lt. Col. Samuel Harvill, the rear detachment commander for the 95th Military Police Battalion.
Colonel Harvill proceeded to list the many accomplishments of the company, each accomplishment not quite encompassing what he felt made the unit so special.
They conduct flawless community law enforcement, Colonel Harvill said, covering the largest area within the 95th MP Bn.’s footprint. They command and control one of the largest military working dog kennels.
But, despite all of their accomplishments, Colonel Harvill said, “I propose that these Soldiers, NCOs and officers standing before you are what make the Warmasters great, and at the top of the unit wire diagram is the commander.”
The troops of the 230th MP Co. are the heart and soul of their organization, and they are led from the front by their commander.
Addressing Captain Larson, Colonel Harvill said, “Make no mistake about it, you made a difference in the lives of these Soldiers, NCOs and officers — personally and professionally.”
Captain Larson addressed the troops in his farewell speech and reiterated Colonel Harvill’s theme of greatness among the Warmasters’s troops.
“You are the brigade’s reserve,” Captain Larson told the Soldiers standing in formation. “You are the ones looked at and called upon first to answer any task that comes. It’s your dedication as leaders and Soldiers that has made this happen.”
Captain Larson made a point to personally thank the dozens of Soldiers, NCOs and officers who have mentored and helped him during his time in command.
“You warriors standing on the floor are the most ferocious and resilient troopers I’ve ever been around,” he said.
As Captain Larson spent his last moments with his Soldiers, Colonel Harvill implored him to take a moment to look over the formation one last time.
“Take a mental snapshot of the formation before you,” Colonel Harvill said. “It is one that you will cherish for the rest of your life. You leave their ranks today, but you do not leave their hearts. Well done.” Colonel Harvill also had nothing but words of encouragement for the unit’s incoming commander.
“No position as an officer is more rewarding than being a commander,” Colonel Harvill told Captain Ingrao. Captain Larson was equally enthusiastic about Captain Ingrao’s new position as commander of the Warmasters.
“You’re taking over the best company in the brigade,” Captain Larson said. “I have the utmost confidence that you will continue to improve and lead this company to greater things.”
After such a fervent introduction to his new company, Captain Ingrao addressed the formation and told them, simply, “I am both proud and humbled to be your commander.”
