122nd RTI Center of Excellence Welcomes New CSM

Photo By Maj. William Carraway | Colonel Jeff Olive, commander of the 122nd Regiment, Regional Training Institute transfers the regimental colors to incoming Regimental Command Sgt. Major Patrick Eaton (left) during a change of responsibility at RTI headquarters while outgoing Command Sgt. Major Jason York observes.  

MARIETTA, GA, UNITED STATES

03.06.2018

Story by Capt. William Carraway 

Georgia National Guard

Command Sergeant Major Patrick Eaton assumed responsibility for the 122nd Regiment, Regional Training Institute from outgoing Command Sergeant Major Jason York during a ceremony at the Clay National Guard Center March 4, 2018. Colonel Jeff Olive, commander of the 122nd RTI spoke of York’s untiring energy and innovation during his time with the regiment.

“Thank you for your service, your dedication and your professionalism,” said Olive. “You hit the ground running two years ago and you haven’t stopped since.”

Colonel Olive recounted York’s many achievements and initiatives including his work to establish award ceremonies, team-building exercises and NCO team development events. York spearheaded the Georgia Army National Guard’s best warrior competition and the annual Assault on Kennesaw Mountain five-kilometer race which has raised more than $40,000 for the Georgia Guard Family Support Foundation.

Colonel Olive presented York with the Meritorious Service Medal in recognition of his service with the regiment and wished him well in his future assignment as command sergeant major of the Calhoun, Ga.-based 108th Cavalry Squadron.

Command Sergeant Major Patrick Eaton brings more than 30 years of infantry experience to the regiment, having served in positions ranging from team leader to first sergeant in infantry companies. Eaton has also served as the chief operations sergeant with the Columbus-based 648th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade and has provided expertise during the MEB’s missions in Korea and Romania.

“This regiment has given me nothing short of a warm, warm welcome,” said Eaton after receiving the regimental colors from Col. Olive.” I have been bowled over by the passion, commitment, professionalism and expertise of the instructors and NCOs of this regiment. It is a crisp, sharp institution of excellence and we are going to continue the mission.”

The 122nd RTI provides a wide variety of military instruction and training. In 2017, the 122nd conducted 48 courses consisting of 18,300 instruction hours. Its courses range from allied trades, infantry, military police and maintenance to information technology and signal support systems. The 122nd also facilitates the Georgia Military Institute’s officer candidate school, now entering its 58th year.

• Date Taken: 03.06.2018
• Date Posted: 03.08.2018 10:58
• Story ID: 268373
• Location: MARIETTA, GA, US
• Hometown: MARIETTA, GA, US