Subscribe
BASRAH, Iraq – Leadership from the 36th Infantry Division Special Troops Battalion gathered June 17 at the Contingency Operating Base Basra Chapel to welcome the new commander of Company A.
Capt. Kristean Heggem took command from Capt. Omar Davila, who served as A Company commander for two years.
“Thank you for the opportunity to command,” said Heggem following the passing of the company guidon. “A Company’s mission is to successfully complete U.S. Division-South’s handover to the Department of State and Iraqi security forces. It is my honor and privilege…to serve on this mission with all of you.”
Heggem was commissioned from ROTC as an Armor officer after graduating from the University of Nevada-Reno in 2001 with a bachelor’s degree in history. He served four years on active duty before joining the Texas Army National Guard in 2005.
Heggem’s awards include the Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal and an Iraqi Campaign Medal among others.
Lt. Col. Doug DeVries, 36th DSTB commander, praised the outgoing commander for his ability to ensure individual soldier readiness and administrative preparedness for A Company’s mobilization. DeVries also expressed confidence in Heggem’s abilities to assume command.
“He has a wealth of experience that he brings to the team and I know that he’ll do a great job,” said DeVries.
Following DeVries’ speech, Davila had the opportunity to express gratitude to his family who supported him from home. He also thanked his peers, officers and soldiers for everything they have done to assist him during his time in command.
“Thanks to my family, who encouraged me to do the right thing and make the right decision,” said Davila. “And thanks to the soldiers of A Company. You are the company. You are the ones who make everything happen; I was just the driver of this bus.”
| Date Taken: | 06.20.2011 |
| Date Posted: | 06.28.2011 03:32 |
| Story ID: | 72872 |
| Location: | BASRA, IQ |
| Web Views: | 37 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Fresh face for Company A command, by SPC Brittany Gardner, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
