FORT JACKSON, South Carolina — The brigade colors for a Fort Jackson civil affairs unit were handed to an alumnus of Mississippi State University and the Thurgood Marshall School of Law to welcome the new commander at a change of command ceremony held May 17 at Hilton Field here.
With comfortable and sunny weather for the event, Col. Isaac Johnson exchanged the 360th Civil Affairs Brigade (Airborne) colors with outgoing commander Col. Woodward Nunis. In a ceremony supported by close colleagues, friends and family, both incoming and outgoing commanders shared emotional highlights brought on by the occasion. Also in attendance was Maj. Gen. Jeffrey Jacobs, commanding general of the U.S. Army Civil Affairs and Psychological Operations Command (Airborne).
Brig. Gen. Alan Stolte, commander of the 352nd Civil Affairs Command, began his remarks with a favorable overview of Nunis’ accomplishments since becoming brigade commander in the spring of 2012. Stolte also welcomed Johnson sharing with the audience that the 360th CA BDE (A) is transitioning into capable hands.
“I’d like to thank Maj. Gen. Jacobs and Brig. Gen. Stolte for the opportunity to take command of the 360th,” Johnson said, as he started his remarks. He thanked those in attendance, especially his wife Demetria and his family for their constant support.
During 27 years of military service, Johnson completed additional higher education programs in business administration, as well as advanced military courses such as Advanced Operations and Warfighting and the U.S. Army War College earning a master’s degree in Strategic Studies. Johnson also successfully completed his assignment as commander of 405th Civil Affairs Battalion. Subsequently, Johnson deployed to East Africa as the Director of Operations for Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa.
Focusing on readiness and continuing Nunis’s excellent work, Johnson confirmed that the 360th will be ready.
“I am humbled and honored to accept this outstanding command,” Johnson said.
The main task will be continuing through the Army Force Generation Cycle with a focus on training, equipment, and Soldier readiness, said Johnson in closing.
After the ceremony, Johnson’s wife and his son, Sgt. David Johnson, shared how proud they are of Johnson’s accomplishments as husband and father.
As Nunis gave his final remarks, he encouraged his former Soldiers to continue working toward high standards and completing every task, no matter how challenging.