Task Force 1-Geronimo assumes command in West Paktika, completes Spartan Brigade command in Afghanistan.

FORWARD OPERATING BASE SHARANA, AFGHANISTAN

03.28.2009

Courtesy Story

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

FORWARD OPERATING BASE SHARANA, Afghanistan — Lt. Col. Clint Baker, commander of the Task Force 1-Geronimo, 1st Battalion, 501st Airborne, 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division assumed command of western Paktika province during a transfer of authority ceremony, March 28, completing the transfer of authority for the Spartan Brigade, Task Force Yukon, in Afghanistan.

"The Soldiers of Task Force Red Currahee, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division have been extremely impressed with the professionalism and dedication that we have seen every day partnering with the ANSF," said Lt. Col. Tony DeMartino, TF Red Currahee commander. "We have built the bonds that only comrades in arms can fully appreciate. It has been a very rewarding friendship for Task Force Red Currahee, and it has been an honor to stand amongst their ranks."

Baker assumed not only command of the area, but the responsibility of nurturing the relationships built by his predecessors.

"Today we are proud to become full-fledged members of team here in our area of operation. We are very eager to continue the strong partnerships and true friendships that our predecessors fostered with our brave Afghan security force brothers, and the skilled civilian leaders of the Paktika province," Baker said.

As the outgoing unit relinquished command, the Soldiers of TF Red Currahee emphasized his expectancy of TF 1-Geronimo to continue their efforts, and accomplish the mission.

"Task Force 1 Geronimo, 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," DeMartino said. "I challenge you all to continue the great progress made throughout the past year."

Baker 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 Red Currahee has demonstrated during their time here," Baker 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 this area a better place for future generations."

• Date Taken: 03.28.2009
• Date Posted: 05.29.2009 09:05
• Story ID: 34274
• Location: FORWARD OPERATING BASE SHARANA, AF