Maintenance window scheduled to begin at February 14th 2200 est. until 0400 est. February 15th

(e.g. yourname@email.com)

Forgot Password?

    Defense Visual Information Distribution Service Logo

    'Warhorse' bids farewell

    Warhorse bids farewell

    Photo By Marcus Fichtl | Soldiers of 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, render honors...... read more read more

    CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait – “To the Soldiers of the ‘Warhorse’ Brigade, it has been a great two years,” said Col. Omar Jones, outgoing commander, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division.

    The 2nd ABCT, 4th Infantry Division, hosted its change of command ceremony where Jones relinquished command of the brigade to Lt. Col. Andrew Koloski on Camp Buehring, Kuwait, June 9.

    As the brigade’s deployment to Kuwait draws to an end, Koloski will be tasked with the responsibility of seeing 2,500 Soldiers safely redeploy to Fort Carson, Colorado, while Jones will take the executive officer position for U.S. Central Command.

    “As I think about the past two years, I am confident that this brigade reflects what ‘right looks like’ in our Army today and that each of you epitomizes what it means to be a Soldier,” said Jones.

    Jones, who assumed command of the brigade in the summer of 2012, prepared the brigade to deploy as soon as he arrived through training that consisted of two month-long rotations – one at the Pinon Canyon Maneuver Site, Colorado, and another at the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, California.

    “Our time at Fort Carson was fast paced and demanding and you all excelled,” said Jones. “Getting back on tanks, Bradleys, Paladins and conducting squad maneuvers after years of counterinsurgency operations, you demonstrated exceptional skills while mastering the fundamentals of our craft.”

    From the snowstorms of Pinon Canyon to sands of Fort Irwin, the brigade has met or exceeded all of Jones’ expectations.

    “Last June we deployed to the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, California and you were incredible,” said Jones. “You bested the opposing force in every fight, destroying the enemy’s reconnaissance before the battle even began – twice. You were recognized for having the best artillery battery, the best brigade support area, the best urban operations and the best combined-arms breach seen at NTC in years. You did this while maintaining the best safety record in over two years – truly a mark of the great Soldiers and leaders in this formation.”

    Jones closed with a few words aimed directly at the Army’s most precious resource – Soldiers.

    “I could not be prouder of you and what you have achieved,” said Jones. “Thank you for allowing me to join your ranks and be part of this remarkable team the last two years. It has truly been my honor to be a Warhorse Soldier.”

    Koloski knows he will have big shoes to fill and acknowledged the outstanding direction Jones provided.

    “Colonel Jones. I want to thank you and Tracey for the incredible leadership you have provided for this brigade over the last two years,” said Koloski. “You’ve been the absolute model of an Army leader. The tremendous achievements of this brigade are a direct result of your vision, drive and determination.”

    As one chapter closes for the Warhorse Brigade, another opens.

    “To the Soldiers of the Warhorse Brigade Combat Team, this is without a doubt the finest team of which I’ve been a part of in over 22 years of service,” said Koloski. “I am privileged and honored for the opportunity to lead the Warhorse Brigade on its sunset ride.”

    LEAVE A COMMENT

    NEWS INFO

    Date Taken: 06.09.2014
    Date Posted: 06.12.2014 03:48
    Story ID: 132868
    Location: CAMP BUEHRING, KW
    Hometown: BALTIMORE, MD, US
    Hometown: COLORADO SPRINGS, CO, US
    Hometown: FORT CARSON, CO, US
    Hometown: JUNEAU, AK, US

    Web Views: 342
    Downloads: 2

    PUBLIC DOMAIN