Photo By 1st Lt. Tracci Dorgan | Brig. Gen. Gregory Batts, incoming commander of the 263rd Army Air Missile Defense...... read more read more
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ANDERSON, S.C. – The 263rd Army Air Missile Defense Command (AAMDC) has been assigned with protecting the skies over the U.S. from aerial attack since 9/11. For the last five years, Maj. Gen. Herbert Newton has been the commander of this much-needed unit since September 2007. But a new commander, who promises a continued focus on training, service and leadership, has now taken on this task.
On Sept. 8, Brig. Gen. Gregory Batts assumed command of the 263rd AAMDC during a Change of Command Ceremony held on the grounds of Anderson College.
“I don’t like the phrase, ‘Take it to the next level,’ that some commanders use when assuming command over a unit,” said Batts. “That implies that the unit needs a kick in the pants. That is clearly not the case with the 263rd.”
The 263rd was the first National Guard unit called to duty after the attacks on 9/11. Along with being assigned to assist Homeland Security with the protection of America’s skies, they have trained with units from other U.S. forces including Central and Northern Command and military units from Germany, Japan and other U.S. allies.
“We’ve had a lot of successes, but that is due to the great soldiers we have,” said outgoing commander Newton. “There are some great soldiers here in Anderson, from the bottom up. This is not my day, nor General Batts’ day. This is the 263rd’s day. This is about your success and your future.”
Although Newton doesn’t want to take credit for the success of the 263rd, under his leadership the AAMDC has flourished and the unit has accomplished all that it has been tasked with.
“People questioned if the AAMDC could perform these missions,” said Maj. Gen. Robert Livingston, Adjutant General of South Carolina. “You have done great work and provided a great service.”
Livingston continued his praises by reminding the AAMDC that they have already seen Batts in action. In 2005, Batts served as Chief of Staff for the 263rd. From 2003 to 2005 he served with the unit in the G1 section.
“He brings a continued leadership to the AAMDC,” said Livingston. “We are going to continue to have a strong leadership team so the 263rd and the United States will be served with great leaders. The 263rd will move forward without missing a beat.”
As Newton said his farewells and gave thanks to the unit he has served for the past five years, he also had praises for the new commander and stated, “General Batts has commanded at every level. You will continue to do great things under his leadership.”
| Date Taken: | 09.08.2012 |
| Date Posted: | 09.12.2012 13:59 |
| Story ID: | 94589 |
| Location: | ANDERSON, SC, US |
| Web Views: | 968 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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