Photo By Sgt. Tracy R. Myers | Lt. Col. James W. Baker, III Corps Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion incoming...... read more read more
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FORT HOOD, Texas - During a time honored change of command ceremony, an enthusiastic Lt. Col. James W. Baker assumes command of III Corps Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion Tuesday.
Baker, a native of Nashville, Ga., enlisted in the Army to seek a career in arms and attain the ability to see the world, he said. Contrary to his expectations, his first duty station was Fort Stewart, Ga., approximately two hours from his hometown.
Eventually, after 24 years in service, Baker saw places he never expected to as a child, he said. This is the culmination of his dedication.
Although commitment and charisma has advanced Baker to this current position, his passion for soldiers and families drives him to succeed as their new commander.
He pledges to match the outgoing commander, Lt. Col. George J. Murray’s dedication to soldiers, leaders and their families.
“Never in my career have I seen a post with the amenities, capabilities and willingness to care for soldiers and their families,” said Baker.
As the incoming commander of III Corps HHBN, Baker expresses his concern for the welfare of the troops.
“My wife, Diane, and I are a command team,” said Baker. “We do whatever we can to help make soldiers and families lives better.”
He has taken on the assignment with great confidence and enthusiasm.
Ensuring more than 1,000 Soldiers are accurately trained, physically and mentally ready and properly cared for while implementing rear-detachment systems for Soldiers and Families is a considerable challenge, said Baker. “I know that I have been handed a tremendous opportunity and responsibility.”
The commander is the ultimate leader of their troops, and responsible for gaining their trust and respect.
Baker’s philosophy on leadership is to take an optimistic approach and set a positive example to younger leaders and Soldiers, he said. If soldiers see their leaders giving 110% effort, they emulate that.
“Respect goes both ways,” said Baker. “I get so much joy out of seeing young soldiers take over their leaders’ responsibilities and doing them well, it is like being a proud dad.”
He encourages soldiers and families within the ranks to never give up, said Baker. If you are persistent to achieve a goal, then you can make it happen.
With this attitude, Baker reaches his personal, professional and education objectives.
He takes over for Lt. Col. George J. Murray, a native of Lynn, Mass., who was commanding the battalion for the past 18 months. He relinquishes command of HHBN satisfied by his experience.
“I am fortunate and humble to have held this position here,” said Murray. “It is very gratifying being able to make a positive effect on soldiers and their families.”
Murray leaves the battalion in complete mission readiness for Baker, said Brig. Gen. James M. Richardson, III Corps deputy commanding general.
However the outgoing commander gives credit to the staff and Soldiers for the success of the battalion.
“Soldiers, NCOs and officers of HHBN III Corps, your accomplishments are many,” said Murray. “You have set the example for what right looks like for administration, life support, readiness, protection and communication.”
| Date Taken: | 10.30.2012 |
| Date Posted: | 10.31.2012 16:56 |
| Story ID: | 97075 |
| Location: | FORT HOOD, TX, US |
| Hometown: | LYNN, MA, US |
| Hometown: | NASHVILLE, GA, US |
| Web Views: | 601 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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