Spartan Steel assumes command in Khowst

KHOWST PROVINCE, AFGHANISTAN

03.14.2009

Story by Pfc. Andrya Hill 

2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 11th Airborne Division Public Affairs

KHOWST PROVINCE, Afghanistan — Lt. Col. Stephen Smith, commander of the Task Force Steel, 2nd Battalion, 377th Parachute Field Artillery Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division took over the helm of command from Lt. Col. David Ell, commander of Task Force Glory 4th Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 101st Infantry Division for the Khowst province in eastern Afghanistan March 14, during a transfer of authority ceremony.

For the past year, accomplishing mission and combat-oriented goals throughout the duration of the deployment was attributed to the solid partnership Task Force Glory created with the Afghanistan national security forces in Khowst.

"The Soldiers of Task Force Glory have been extremely impressed with the professionalism and dedication that we have seen every day partnering with the ANSF," said Ell. "We have built the bonds that only comrades in arms can fully appreciate. It has been a very rewarding friendship for Task Force Glory, and it has been an honor to stand amongst their ranks."

With the assumption of command in Khowst, Smith not only has to with the kinetics of the situation but also the responsibility of nurturing the relationships built by his predecessors.

"Today we are proud to become full-fledged members of team Khowst," Smith said. "We are very eager to continue the strong partnerships and true friendships that Task Force Glory fostered with our brave Afghan security force brothers, and the skilled civilian leaders of the Khowst province.
As Task Force Glory humbly relinquished command, Ell emphasized his expectancy of the Steel battalion to continue their efforts, and accomplish the mission.

"Task Force Steel, I wish you the best of luck throughout the next year, and I know that you will find your deployment as rewarding as we have," he said. "I challenge you all to continue the great progress made throughout the past year."

Smith accepted the challenge, committing to further the partnership with the ANSF and area officials, as well as expressing his determination to bring increased stability to the Province.
"I promise you the same level of support, partnership, and genuine friendship that Task Force Glory has demonstrated during their time here," he said. "We are excited to be here, and look forward to working with all of our Afghan brothers, friends, and comrades in arms to make Khowst a better place for future generations."

• Date Taken: 03.14.2009
• Date Posted: 05.29.2009 08:30
• Story ID: 34267
• Location: KHOWST PROVINCE, AF