CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait - A ceremony was held Sunday to commemorate the Transfer of Authority from the 36th to the 42nd Combat Aviation Brigade.
The traditional event is a visual symbol of the transfer from one command to another as one brigade’s guidon (or colors) is encased for the trip home and the other is unfurled for the mission ahead.
The 42nd CAB will utilize UH-60 “Black Hawk” and AH-64 “Apache” helicopters, and fixed-wing assets to conduct security cooperation, joint exercises, and training in the Middle East. Partnership events with other countries will promote security, stability, and mutual interests in the region.
The 36th CAB of the Texas Army National Guard is headed home after a tremendously successful nine-month deployment. Their deployment included training in several Middle Eastern countries, flying off of five U.S. Navy ships, and working with two ships from the U.S. Army’s fleet of watercraft.
Maj. Gen. Dana J.H. Pittard, deputy commanding general for Army Central Command, said that the 36th CAB led contingency operations by developing a tactical environment, enhancing maritime security and concept development, and the coordination of deck landing qualifications.
“You were able to train in the most volatile and strategic areas in the Middle East,” Pittard said. “The 42nd will continue the legacy of the 36th Combat Aviation Brigade.”
After casing the guidon, Col. Rick Adams, commander of the 36th CAB, said that the brigade has had so many enormous opportunities.
“The partnership piece of our mission has been huge, the engagements we’ve had with the Middle Eastern people have been enjoyable,” Adams said.
The incoming brigade assuming the mission is from the New York Army National Guard and is headquartered in Latham. When all subordinate units are in place, the 42nd will include Army National Guard units from six states and an active duty battalion.
Col. Al Ricci, commander of the incoming brigade, said, “The 36th CAB has a lot of history and a lot of experience. We feel confident about taking on this mission from you.”
“Our journey has just begun, we are prepared to do our mission and provide solutions to ARCENT,” Ricci said.
With the transfer of authority complete, there was only one thing left to do: lower the Texas flag in front of the brigade headquarters building, and hoist the state flag of New York.