Photo By Cpl. Paul S. Martinez | Maj. Eldon Beck, executive officer, Headquarters Battalion, leads the HQBN staff...... read more read more
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TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. - Marines, sailors, distinguished guests, families and friends of Headquarters Battalion gathered to watch as Lt. Col Michael A. Bowers, former commanding officer, HQBN, relinquished command to Lt. Col. Dennis A. Sanchez, commanding officer, HQBN, during a change of command ceremony at Lance Cpl. Torrey L. Gray Field, July 2, 2014.
Bowers assumed command of the battalion in July 2012, and will now report to Maxwell Air Force Base, Montogomery, Ala., for command schooling.
“To be a part of this command and the community is a very special thing,” Bowers said. “It has been such a privilege.”
Bowers and Sanchez took their positions as Sgt. Maj. Abel Leal, battalion sergeant major, HQBN, presented the unit’s colors to be officially passed from one commanding officer to another, symbolizing the transfer of authority and responsibility for the Marines of HQBN.
Sanchez is no stranger to the Combat Center, having previously served as a company commander with 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, in 2003. His last assignment was as the operations officer for Eastern Recruiting Region, Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C.
“We’re going to have a great time with the phenomenal Marines here,” Sanchez said.
Among those in attendance were retired Sgt. Maj. Scott Cooper, whom previously served as HQBN sergeant major, and Sgt. Maj. Karl Villalino, Combat Center sergeant major. Also in attendance was Maj. Gen. David H. Berger, Combat Center Commanding General, whom awarded Bowers with a Meritorious Service Medal with gold star in lieu of second award, in recognition of his effective leadership with the battalion over the past two years.
“Command of Headquarters Battalion is a unique challenge,” Berger said. “Watching [Bowers] do a marvelous job these past two years is really satisfying.”
The ceremony concluded with the traditional Marine Corps pass and review, followed by the playing of "Anchors Aweigh" and the "Marines’ Hymn," and the battalion departing to resume their duties under the leadership and direction of a new commanding officer.
“I’m truly honored and humbled to have the opportunity to serve with [HQBN],” Sanchez said. “I’m positive the success of HQBN will continue.”
| Date Taken: | 06.29.2014 |
| Date Posted: | 07.02.2014 19:12 |
| Story ID: | 135170 |
| Location: | TWENTYNINE PALMS, CA, US |
| Web Views: | 347 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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