Cyclone steps out, Wolverine steps in

BAGRAM AIR FIELD, AFGHANISTAN

03.31.2010

Story by Pfc. Roy Mercon 

86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (MTN)

BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan — After nearly three months of mobilization training, the Vermont-based 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Mountain) took the driver's seat in their new area of operations. The Transfer of Authority ceremony took place at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan on March 31. The ceremony signified the 86th IBCT (MTN) had arrived in full force and is 'Ready to Go' in its mission in Afghanistan.

The TOA also meant the departure of Task Force Cyclone, which consists of Soldiers from the 38th Infantry Division of the Indiana National Guard. The 86th IBCT (MTN) will be taking over as Task Force Wolverine.

During the ceremony, Col. Will Roy, Brigade Commander of the 86th IBCT (MTN) and incoming task force commander, had the chance to speak to not only the American Soldiers, Afghan National Security Forces, and Coalition forces in attendance, but the Afghan people as well. In a gesture that spoke to the seriousness of his intentions, he addressed the gathered crowd in both English and Dari to which he received a heartfelt applause.

"Our mission is clear", said Roy. Our Soldiers are trained. Our leaders are prepared. Today, we live up to our brigade's historical motto "Ready to go."

During the months before the deployment, the brigade's mission had changed several times. Roy reflected not on the changes in the mission, but what remained the same.

"Today marks the end of one journey, and the beginning of a new one," said Roy. "Two years ago we began to train as Task Force Phoenix. Since then, much has changed, but one thing has not: Our mission to help our Afghan brothers and sisters in building a brighter future for the children of Afghanistan. Today, we begin this new journey."

During the speech, Roy focused on the role that the Afghan people play in the development in their country. Roy stressed that it was the overall mission to help the people of Afghanistan become self-sufficient.

"We couldn't have asked for better friends to walk beside, hand in hand, shoulder to shoulder, as we do all we can to support the people of Afghanistan build their new future," said Roy.

Task Force Wolverine will be in Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom for the better part of a year.

• Date Taken: 03.31.2010
• Date Posted: 04.03.2010 01:48
• Story ID: 47629
• Location: BAGRAM AIR FIELD, AF