Walson welcomes new commander

Photo By Ryan Morton | New Walson Army Medical Support Element commander, Col. Mark Wilhite, receives the unit guidon from Col. Michael Deaton, commander, United States Army Medical Activity and Command, during the WAMSE change of command ceremony at Army Support Activity-Dix's Sharp Field, June 25. Wilhite assumed command from Col. John Ekstrand, who heads to Fort Gordon, Ga. where he will serve in the position of Deputy Commander for Clinical Services.  

FORT DIX, NJ, UNITED STATES

06.29.2010

Story by Ryan Morton 

USASA, Fort Dix

FORT DIX, N.J. -- Walson Army Medical Support Element bid adieu to its commander, Col. John Ekstrand, and welcomed its new leader, Col. Mark Wilhite, at a change of command ceremony at Army Support Activity-Dix’s Sharp Field, June 25.

“Today is a great day to be a Soldier and I am humbled to stand here today and take command of this great unit,” said Wilhite as he addressed his new command.

WMSE is responsible for the medical processing and support of Soldiers mobilizing, demobilizing and for those who are considered wounded warriors.

Wilhite comes to WMSE from his previous assignment at Fort Riley, Kan., where he served as deputy commander for administration at Irwin Army Community Hospital.

“To the Soldiers of Walson Medical Support Element, you all look great today. Thank you for what you do each and every day. I’m proud to serve as your commander and I look forward to serving with you,” he said.

On hand for the occasion were leadership and dignitaries from the ASA-Dix community and Col. Michael Deaton, commander, commander of Keller Army Community Hospital, West Point, N.Y. He welcomed Wilhite, and awarded Ekstrand the Legion of Merit medal.

“This unit is a true military organization focused on mission and doing whatever it takes to get the job done. And we have gotten it done. Thousands of Soldiers, Airmen and Marines have mobilized through the [Joint Readiness Center]. Walson is a critical element in projecting a fit and ready fighting force. Each and every one of you can be proud of the outstanding contribution you have made to this great country of ours,” said Ekstrand.

“To all of Walson, Soldiers and civilians, I thank you for all you do. You take care of Soldiers and that is all I have ever asked of you. You do it better that any other organization I know,” he said.

Ekstrand then welcomed Wilhite, told him he’s taking over a great team, and wished his former Soldiers the best.

Ekstrand moves onto Fort Gordon, Ga., where will assume the role of deputy commander for clinical services.

• Date Taken: 06.29.2010
• Date Posted: 06.29.2010 09:25
• Story ID: 52129
• Location: FORT DIX, NJ, US