Photo By Tech. Sgt. Tyler J. Bolken | Lt. Col. Brian J. King salutes the colors for the last time as commanding officer of...... read more read more
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MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. - The ceremonial thump of the drum from the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing Band was fitting for the appointment of Marine Wing Communication Squadron 28’s new commanding Spartan, Oct. 21.
Marines, family and friends gathered at one of Cherry Point’s pine-tree-etched parade fields for the relinquishing of command between outgoing commanding officer Lt. Col. Brian J. King and his replacement, Lt. Col. Gregory T. Puntney.
“It’s a good day to be a Carolina Marine,” said Col. Jeffrey L. Merchant, commanding officer of Marine Air Control Group 28. “This is a fine squadron.”
King was the Spartan’s commanding officer for 18 months, in which the squadron spent time in Iraq, Afghanistan and various other training locations.
“Even when we had Marines in two theaters of war between Iraq and Afghanistan, the Marines never dropped the ball,” King said. “My Marines were good … darn good.”
King takes most pride in the squadron’s near-flawlessness when being inspected for discrepancies.
“There is nothing better than being told we have nothing to tell you,” King explained.
King is moving on to assume the role as director of 2nd MAW’s communications section.
“It’s an office you’re familiar with and a desk you’re familiar with,” joked Merchant, “So the transition should be pretty quick and seamless.”
As for the squadron’s transition – “It is a singular honor and a humbling privilege to be with the Marines of MWCS-28,” said Puntney, who was formerly the assistant chief of staff of communications for 2nd Marine Division. “My challenge is to sustain what has already been started.”
Puntney added that if it weren’t for the efforts and patience of others, he wouldn’t be where he is today.
King assured Puntney that he’s going to be working with quality Marines, telling him, “I learned a lot from these guys, and I’m sure you’re going to have a great time. I had an amazing 18 months.”
Puntney parted the morning’s ceremonies with words to his new Marines.
“Your name, your reputation and your performance have preceded you, and I am both eager and humbled to come along side you and join you on the journey you have already begun. The days will be long, the nights will be short, and the sweat will pour, but we will accomplish the mission together as a family.”
| Date Taken: | 10.21.2010 |
| Date Posted: | 10.28.2010 13:23 |
| Story ID: | 59004 |
| Location: | MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, NC, US |
| Web Views: | 211 |
| Downloads: | 3 |
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