SOUTHWEST ASIA – The 108th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, based out of Fort Bragg, N.C., conducted a change of command ceremony here Sept. 22.
Col. Christopher L. Spillman, outgoing commander for the 108th ADA Bde., assumed command June 2009 and now departs to take the reigns as assistant commandant of the Air Defense Artillery School, Fort Sill, Okla.
“Serving as the commander of the 108th Air Defense Artillery Brigade has been the most professionally rewarding experience of my career,” Spillman said. “Commanding the brigade has been a great honor.”
During his tenure as brigade commander, Spillman deployed four subordinate battalions, three of which are based out of Fort Bragg and one from Fort Campbell, Ky.
In addition to his oversight, he provided leadership in the redeployment and redistribution of three of the same battalions from Iraq and Afghanistan.
Looking to his future assignment, Spillman said his experience as 108th ADA’s brigade commander will help him overcome challenges ahead.
“I believe I will bring forward a good understanding of the training and maintenance challenges impacting our readiness,” explained Spillman. “Perhaps I’ll be able to address ways to get after these challenges and improve how we train soldiers in the institutional training base.”
Col. Sean A. Gainey, incoming 108th ADA Bde. commander and Columbia, S.C. native, said he looks forward to the responsibilities as commander and wants to leave a lasting impression on the soldiers of the 108th ADA Bde.
“It is truly an honor and privilege to command the great Spartan Brigade,” Gainey said. “This brigade has a rich history and I’m proud to be part of the legacy.”
Third Army’s commitment to both the well-being of its soldiers, as well as the service members of partner nations remains a priority. With dedicated and caring commanders within the ranks of 108th ADA Bde., Third Army is helping to inspire, educate and inform service members, the strength of our nation.