‘First in Support’ command welcomes new CG

Maj. Gen. Aundre F. Piggee, the outgoing commanding general of the 21st Theater Sustainment Command, relinquished command of the 21st TSC to Maj. Gen. John R. O’Connor, the incoming commanding general, during a change of command ceremony June 28 on Daenner Kaserne.

Piggee has served as the commanding general of the 21st TSC since August 2011. Some of his most notable accomplishments while in command have been the vast achievements made by the organization’s Lean Six Sigma program, the rapid assistance of the NATO mission in Turkey, and overseeing the largest theater sustainment command in the Army.

“Your exceptional leadership, extraordinary mission, and technical and tactical expertise led the Soldiers, civilians and family members of this command through many changes and challenges,” said Lt. Gen. Donald M. Campbell Jr., commanding general of U.S. Army Europe about Piggee. “Job extremely well done. You are absolutely leaving the 21st TSC in a superb state of readiness.”

Throughout his time in Germany, Piggee and his wife have been active participants within the local community, focusing on partnership between the American and German members of the KMC.

“I now have firsthand experience why Kaiserslautern has held a special spot in so many American hearts for so many years,” Piggee said. “We thank you for your gracious friendship and steadfast support.”

Piggee’s next assignment will take him to MacDill Air Force Base, Fla., where he will take over responsibility as the director of logistics for U.S. Central Command.

“As we transition today, I know of no other Soldier in the entire Army that’s better prepared to assume command of this great organization than Jack O’Connor,” Piggee said. “I know you will lead this command to the next level.”

O’Connor, a native of Toledo, Ohio, comes to the 21st TSC from Fort Bragg, N.C., where he previously served as the deputy chief of staff for logistics of Forces Command.

“Today is truly an honor,” O’Connor said. “I approach this job as I have all the others, with commitment to our Soldiers, with commitment to their families, the mission, and a commitment to serve with steadfast action and respect, giving 110 percent, and then some.”

“Team 21: All standing policies and procedures remain in effect,” O’Connor said. “First in support. Army strong.”