Ausbun takes garrison CSM reins from Dodson

Photo By Chuck Cannon | Col. Jarrett A. Thomas II, Fort Polk garrison commander, passes the garrison colors to the incoming command sergeant major, Command Sgt. Maj. Christopher M. Ausbun during a change of responsibility held March 22, as outgoing command sergeant major, Command Sgt. Maj. Jerry Dodson, looks on.  

FORT POLK, LA, UNITED STATES

03.29.2019

Story by Angie Thorne 

Fort Johnson Public Affairs Office

By ANGIE THORNE
Guardian staff writer

FORT POLK, La. — A change of responsibility ceremony for Fort Polk’s outgoing garrison command sergeant major, Command Sgt. Maj. Jerry L. Dodson Jr., and incoming command sergeant major, Command Sgt. Maj. Christopher M. Ausbun, took place March 22 at Warrior Field.
During the passing of the garrison colors, Ausbun was charged with the trust and confidence of the garrison commander to perform his duties with patriotism, dedication, integrity and leadership.
Col. Jarrett A. Thomas II, Fort Polk garrison commander, said it was a great day to not only recognize the outstanding accomplishments of Dodson, but also extend a warm welcome to Ausbun and his Family.
Thomas said during the last two years, Dodson was not only his right hand man, but has provided invaluable guidance to commanders and command sergeants major ranging from the tactical to the strategic.
“He advised the population of nearly 32,000 Soldiers, civilians, Family members and retirees and was a calming presence and steady rock our NCOs and officers looked to in times of crisis,” he said.
Thomas said Dodson also had a true commitment to Soldiers and Families.
“With his ‘adopted’ son, Corporal Devon Douglas, Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers president, he worked diligently to elevate the BOSS program to one of the top programs in the Army. Through his direct leadership, the BOSS program doubled its participation rate and more than doubled its community service hours,” he said.
Dodson made it a priority to relocate the Soldier For Life — Transition Assistance Program from a stand-alone building at Fort Polk’s airfield to the Education Center in the heart of Fort Polk to make the transition easier for Soldiers, said Thomas.
“The consolidation of these two entities streamlined the transition process,” he said.
Additionally, Dodson helped manage more than 240,000 acres of training lands and assisted in the execution of a $130 million dollar budget with precision and discipline, Thomas said.
Thomas said Dodson’s involvement in the implementation of the Army Barracks Management program was invaluable.
“He identified key issues and helped resolve them while proactively partnering with units to increase the barracks occupancy rate to nearly 100 percent,” he said.
Thomas thanked Dodson.
“The work you have done will leave a lasting impression on this great installation and it has been an absolute honor to serve with you. Thank you for a job well done,” said Thomas.
Dodson addressed those gathered for the event.
He gave thanks for the opportunity to serve as Fort Polk garrison’s command sergeant major. He said the mentorship and leadership that so many others provided was instrumental in setting him up for success.
“The knowledge and insight that I have gained is invaluable and will serve me well throughout the remainder of my career and I will leave Fort Polk a better leader because of it,” he said.
Dodson thanked Col. Thomas (his battle buddy) for his vision, guidance and leadership.
“We have accomplished a lot in a short period of time. Fort Polk is now a better place for Soldiers, Families and those who live and work here on the installation.
“We won’t be around to see many of our accomplishments come to fruition, but it’s a great feeling to leave here and know those who come after us will ultimately benefit from them,” he said.
Dodson wished Ausbun and his Family the best of luck.
“I know you are the right sergeant major for the job,” he said.
Thomas also welcomed Ausbun and his Family to Fort Polk.
“He has a great reputation that speaks for itself. I will expect much from him and I know he will deliver,” he said. “The Soldiers, Family members and civilians of Fort Polk can be assured that they are getting an outstanding command sergeant major.”
As the new command sergeant major, Ausbun said his job was going to be a highly rewarding challenge.
“I accept this challenge and don’t take this opportunity lightly. I look forward to working with everyone as we provide the best possible service and quality of life for our Soldiers and Families. I’m ready to make a difference and proud to be part of the team,” he said.
Among Ausbun’s duty assignments: He served in the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment at Fort Hood Texas, United States Military Academy Bravo Company, 2nd Regiment at West Point, New York. His overseas assignments include Operation Bright Star, Operation Iraqi Freedom I and Operation Iraqi Freedom 07-09.
Among Ausbun’s schools: He is a graduate of the Primary Leadership Development Course, holds a degree in applied science from Central Texas College, a bachelor of science degree and a master’s degree in criminal justice from Excelsior College.

• Date Taken: 03.29.2019
• Date Posted: 04.01.2019 09:50
• Story ID: 316370
• Location: FORT POLK, LA, US