13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary)

Story by Sgt. Keith VanKlompenberg

CAMP ADDER, Iraq – The 287th Sustainment Brigade passed control of all logistics and support operations in southern Iraq to the 36th Sustainment Brigade, in a transfer of authority ceremony Sept.19 at Camp Adder, Iraq.

The ceremony marked the end of a year-long deployment for the 287th, a Kansas National Guard unit, and a beginning for the 36th of the Texas National Guard.

Soldiers from the two brigades, as well as members of the Iraqi army and neighbors from local tribes surrounding Camp Adder were in attendance as Col. Robert Schmitt, commander of the 287th, praised his Warfighters for their hard work and dedication to the mission.

"The Soldiers that have worked for us have done an awesome job," said Schmitt.
Schmitt said the 287th played a key role in logistics and support operations in Iraq. Roughly 80 percent of the fuel that moved through Iraq during the course of their deployment came through hubs run by the 287th, and his convoys traveled more than 3 million miles, he said.

Schmitt also said his units worked closely with the Iraqi Army and the local Iraqi population, developing a working relationship the 36th could continue.

"Every Soldier in our brigade and brigade headquarters has a right to be proud," he said.

After casing their colors and officially ending their tour, Schmitt handed off the mission to the 36th.

"Col. Ryan and Sgt. Maj. Shockley," he said, "it's now in your hands and your fine Soldiers."

Col. Sean Ryan, commander of the 36th Sustainment Brigade, thanked Schmitt and the 287th for their hard work. He said his Soldiers were ready to take over the mission.

"We are prepared and motivated to 'Head 'em up and move 'em out,'" said Ryan, referencing the motto of the 36th, who will work under the nickname Task Force Rawhide.

Brigadier Gen. Paul L. Wentz, commander of the 13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), attended the ceremony and spoke on behalf of the 36th's readiness.

"It's a mission I know they have prepared for and are ready to assume," said Wentz.

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