HHC soldiers welcome new commander

Photo By Chief Warrant Officer Brian Henriksen | Soldiers with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 170th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, participate in a change of command ceremony at Camp Mike Spann, Afghanistan May 28, 2011.  

CAMP MIKE SPANN, AFGHANISTAN

05.28.2011

Story by Sgt. Christopher Klutts 

170th Infantry Brigade Combat Team

CAMP MIKE SPANN, Afghanistan – Soldiers with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 170th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, bid farewell to their former company commander, Capt. Randy L. Lewis, and welcomed Capt. Mary E. Thornton during a change of command ceremony here May 28.

In 14 months, Lewis oversaw the deployment of “Hell Raiser” Company to three training exercises in Germany, with more than 100 days of combined training, and northern Afghanistan where the company is deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

“During the past year, Randy has overseen the rapid growth of the company, both in terms of personnel and equipment. He passed that ultimate test of company leadership, successfully deploying his
company to the theater of operations and executing its mission,” said Col. Patrick E. Matlock, the 170th Infantry Brigade Combat Team commander.

Lewis thanked his soldiers, non-commissioned officers and fellow commissioned officers for their hard work during his command.

“I can’t express how much you’ve done for me over the past 14 plus months,” he said.

Thornton, a Savannah, Ga., native, was a plans officer on the brigade staff before becoming the company commander and is more than ready for her new responsibilities, Matlock said.

“Capt. Mary Thornton comes to this position very well prepared to command the headquarters company. She has been a great part of our staff for the past year and a half. It is a privilege for me to place her in command,” he said.

“To the soldiers, officers and leaders of the Hell Raiser Company: Thank you for putting your faith in me. We are partners. One team, one fight,” Thornton said.

• Date Taken: 05.28.2011
• Date Posted: 06.02.2011 02:48
• Story ID: 71459
• Location: CAMP MIKE SPANN, AF