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The Army’s sustainment command in Europe held a change of command ceremony Aug. 25 on NCO Field in Kaiserslautern to welcome a new commanding general and wish a fond farewell to the outgoing commander.
Maj. Gen. Patricia E. McQuistion relinquished command of the 21st Theater Sustainment Command to Brig. Gen. Aundre F. Piggee after two successful years as the 21st TSC commanding general. The presiding officer of the ceremony was Lt. Gen. Mark P. Hertling, the commanding general of the U.S. Army in Europe.
Hertling acknowledged the accomplishments of the command under the leadership of McQuistion and the dynamic role the 21st TSC continues to play in support of the USAREUR mission.
“The 21st TSC makes up nearly half of the force of USAREUR,” Hertling said during his remarks. “You are absolutely without a doubt the most unique and diverse theater sustainment command in the entire U.S. Army.”
As he donned his KHS Raiders ball cap, Hertling praised the partnership McQuistion built with Kaiserslautern High School.
“I’ve written a lot of speeches, but this one has been the toughest,” McQuistion said. “Leif and I want to thank every single person here by name and mention the ones who have passed through and left their mark on this community.
“To the tremendous Soldiers, civilians and family members of the 21st TSC, thank you for what you do every day,” she continued. “Please, just know I treasured the opportunity to command this organization and learn from each of you.”
McQuistion also explained, in an emotional dialogue, the reason why she worked hard and treasured her time as the commander.
“If I was ever likely to forget the reason why we work so hard I would be sharply reminded by the sacrifices of those within our ranks who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation,” she said.
McQuistion’s next assignment will be as commanding general of the U.S. Army Sustainment Command in Rock Island, Ill. The ASC is a global organization charged with providing frontline logistics support to combat units.
Piggee expressed his appreciation to McQuistion for helping him make a smooth transition. He also addressed the Soldiers of the 21st TSC with his plans as their new commander.
“You have a superb reputation earned through excellence against every standard,” Piggee said. “I look forward to serving with you and continuing the
tradition of excellence.
“You will continue to be well trained, well equipped and a ready force led by leaders focused on the basics: discipline, standards, accountability and enforcing the Army values,” he continued.
