MAJ. GEN. JAMES EARL RUDDER ARMY RESERVE CENTER, SAN ANTONIO – Soldiers, family and friends gathered to be part of the historical activation ceremony of the 917th Contracting Battalion.
The activation ceremony took place on November 17. Lt. Col. Jeffrey Hartsell, commander of the 917th and Col. John McFassel, commander of the Acquisition Support Brigade uncased the unit colors to signify the activation of the contracting battalion. During the ceremony, Hartsell was commissioned with commanding the unit.
Hartsell took time to recognize his position and give thanks.
“Brig. General Jolly and Colonel McFassel, thank you for giving me the privilege of not only commanding the 917th Contracting Battalion, but for being the first commander and having the honor and unique experience of activating a unit in this great Army of ours,” said Hartsell.
Distinguished guests at the ceremony included Brig. Gen. Phillip Jolly, commander of the Army Reserve Sustainment Command of Birmingham (ARSC), Ala., Brig. Gen. Norman Green, commander of the 4th Expeditionary Sustainment Command, San Antonio.
During the ceremony, McFassel also expressed the significance of the activating the battalion within today’s Army, as well as, his career.
“This is an especially significant with the entire force structuring taking place in the Army Reserve and a first in my career to activate a unit,” said McFassel.
The 917th is one of two Contingency Contracting Battalions in the ARSC. Each battalion is made up of a five person Contingency Contracting Teams who obtain critical supplies and services for warfighters deployed globally.