Change of command for 98th ESB

Photo By Spc. Joshua Morris | Lt. Col. Joseph S. Miller, the incoming commander 98th Expeditionary Signal Battalion assumes command from Col. Charles R. Phariss, the 98th Expeditionary Signal Battalion outgoing commander at the Silvestre Herrera U.S. Army Reserve Center May 20, during a change of command ceremony.  

MESA, AZ, UNITED STATES

05.25.2017

Story by Spc. Joshua Morris 

301st Public Affairs Detachment

Col. Ray Phariss, the previous commander, relinquished his command to LTC. Joseph Miller who will serve as the new commander of the 98th ESB. Before passing on the torch of leadership, he addressed those who have been a part of his journey.

With his wife, two children, and military family in attendance, Phariss had moments where his emotions got the best of him. For the past two years, Phariss served as the battalion commander, overseeing a plethora of operations. Though this role brought fulfillment, it also came with many sacrifices that Phariss acknowledged.

“I want to thank my wife and children for allowing me to take them to yet another unfamiliar place so I could fulfill my desire to serve as a battalion commander,” Phariss said. “This job required many sacrifices by my family, and today marks the beginning of me shifting the balance back toward them.”

The promise of new beginnings was made evident as Miller took the podium. In his previous role, Miller served as the chief network architect and systems engineer for the North American Aerospace Defense Command’s center located in Colorado Springs.

In the opening remarks of his first speech as commander, he acknowledged those in attendance who helped him reach this point. Soon after he called for a round of applause for the Soldiers serving in the 98th ESB.

The appreciation Miller has for the Soldiers he will now be leading comes from the time he spent serving alongside them, and working directly under the then commander, Phariss. Just last month the 98th participated in a training exercise located in Ft. McCoy, WI.

“As battalion commander, I definitely understand the technical aspects of our responsibilities,” said Miller. “ So I think my past positions have definitely prepared me for this.”

As Miller navigated through his speech, the focus was clear-- to ensure that those under his command continue to maintain the same standard of excellence established before him. In the following 18 months, Miller will lead the 98th ESB through three key exercises that they have been tasked to support across the country. For Miller, he sees his new role as an opportunity to provide mentorship while building relationships.

“Members of 98th ESB, I am excited to be a part of this team and living out the next chapter in its history alongside all of you,” Miller said. “I am eager to watch you perform, and help you accomplish any mission we may be assigned.”

• Date Taken: 05.25.2017
• Date Posted: 05.25.2017 13:28
• Story ID: 235267
• Location: MESA, AZ, US