FORT BENNING, Ga.- Col. Johnnie L. Johnson Jr. hosted an assumption of responsibility ceremony Jan. 31 at Kelley Hill, Fort Benning, Ga., where Command Sgt. Maj. Brian D. Harrison assumed responsibility of the 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, from Command Sgt. Maj. Mark A. Aaron.
The soldiers of the Sledgehammer Brigade, along with distinguished guests and families, watched as the ceremonial sword passed from Aaron to Johnson, representing the relinquishing of responsibility of the brigade, and then passed from Johnson to Harrison, representing the assumption of responsibility of the brigade.
Harrison, who joined the Army on Nov. 18, 1986, served as the battalion command sergeant major for the 1st Battalion, 321st Airborne Field Artillery Regiment, prior to becoming the Sledgehammer Brigade’s command sergeant major.
“Command Sgt. Maj. Aaron is a true professional and will be successful in anything he does,” said Harrison. “Thank you for allowing me to inherit an awesome brigade.”
Aaron has returned to his prior duty position as 1st Battalion, 10th Field Artillery Regiment’s command sergeant major.
“During his seven months as Hammer 7, Command Sgt. Maj. Aaron worked tirelessly to improve the lives of our soldiers and their families to develop the next generation of NCO’s,” said Johnson. “He also provided leaders, both commissioned and non-commissioned, with sound advice garnered from his more than 24 years of service.”
Harrison is excited to assume his new role as Hammer 7.
“I am humbled and grateful to be part of this magnificent team,” said Harrison. “I look forward to working with all of you.”