FORWARD OPERATING BASE GARDEZ, Afghanistan -- May 25 marked a new era chapter in the history of the 3rd Special Troops Battalion, as command of the unit changed hands in a ceremony at Forward Operating Base Gardez, Afghanistan.
U.S. Army Lt. Col. Paul Sarat, outgoing commander of 3rd STB, from Elizabeth, N.J., transferred the battalion command responsibilities to U.S. Army Lt. Col. Walter Smiley, from Oklahoma City, Okla.
While Sarat's tenure was short, having begun in Feb., 2010, when the previous battalion commander had to return home to deal with a family emergency, his accomplishments did not go unnoticed.
"Four months into combat, I have proven that I had made a good decision," said U.S. Army Col. Viet Luong, from Fort Campbell, Ky., 3rd Brigade Combat Team. "Paul Sarat worked tirelessly to build his team. Between Paul and Maj. Gen. Mullakhel, they have catapulted the [Afghan Border Patrol non-commissioned officer] Education System to a new level. They have improved ABP capacities through systems, accountability and great leadership."
Comprehensive plans for the border that will improve security, as well as commerce were also developed during Sarat's tenure as battalion commander.
Relationships built thus far into the battalion's deployment are going to continue, as Smiley looks forward to the future.
"I look forward to making [the brigade commanders] intent a reality and continuing the strong partnership with the 2nd Zone ABP," Smiley said.
Luong shares Smiley's optimism toward the future,saying the new battalion commander is more than qualified to continue the STB's movement in a positive direction.
"Despite changing command in combat, I have no reservations about Lt. Col. Smiley assuming the mantle of leadership in this challenging, complex theatre," Luong said. "He is a battle-hardened veteran of the Iraq War. He is a leader who has led from the front throughout his career."
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