FORT CAMPBELL, Ky. - The change of command ceremony is a time honored military tradition in which the outgoing commander transfers their authority, responsibilities and troops to the incoming commander.
The 3rd Brigade Combat Team “Rakkasans”, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) conducted a change of command ceremony here, August 1, 2013, from Col. R.J. Lillibridge to Col. J.B. Vowell.
Lillibridge, who was the brigade commander on the unit’s most recent deployment to Afghanistan, took the opportunity to thank the Fort Campbell community, his fellow leaders, and his Soldiers among others for their support during his tenure.
“It has been my privilege to serve as your commander for the last two years,” said Lillibridge. “Thank you for all that you have done and what you will continue to do as Rakkasans.”
As the Soldiers of 3BCT say good-bye to their beloved commander, they welcomed their new commander who is no stranger to the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault).
Vowell commanded 2nd Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment “No Slack”, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) where his Task Force deployed to Afghanistan in 2010.
Upon his return, he assumed the duties of the 101st Airborne Division’s Operations Officer before serving as a National Security Fellow, but there is no doubt being side by side with soldiers is where Vowell is destined to serve.
“There is no greater honor in serving our Army than to command soldiers,” said Vowell. “No better way to do that than to command Rakkasans and no better place to command than with the 101st Airborne Division, at Fort Campbell.”