LTF-82 'bridges the gap,' replaces 297th BSB as KAF logistics support

KANDAHAR, AFGHANISTAN

05.27.2007

Story by Sgt. Leeann Lloyd 

22nd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment   

By Sgt. LeeAnn Lloyd
22nd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan — The Logistics Task Force-82 Task Force Bridging replaced the Logistics Task Force 297th Brigade Support Battalion Task Force Denali as the U.S. National Support Element in Regional Command-South during a transfer of authority ceremony at Kandahar Airfield May 26.

Army Lt. Col. Kailon Dickens succeeds Army Lt. Col. Katrina Pillow as commander of the U.S. National Support Element, responsible for ensuring logistics support to U.S. and coalition forces in the region. Dickens' team is comprised of various elements from the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.

"Thirty days ago we were not a complete unit. We have come together from all walks of life – Army, Air Force, Navy – together in a joint effort to continue the mission set by Task Force Denali ... we proudly accept this mission of providing continued support to Soldiers," Dickens said.

Pillow thanked all of those who supported TF Denali during their endeavors in RC-South.

"Thanks again for the contractors, Soldiers and coalition support you all have provided the Logistics Task Force 297th Brigade Support Battalion. I know you will provide Task Force Bridging with your continued support to push supplies forward to the warfighters and the infantrymen, as they fight the Global War on Terror, and win the hearts and minds of the Afghan people," she noted.

Dickens' former assignments include serving in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as a logistics advisor with the Saudi Arabian National Guard, as well as his most recent service as the lead for the Army Power Projection Program with the Force Projection and Distribution Directorate, Headquarters Department of the Army.

• Date Taken: 05.27.2007
• Date Posted: 05.29.2007 15:40
• Story ID: 10550
• Location: KANDAHAR, AF