SAN DIEGO - The 96th Military Police Battalion conducted a change of command ceremony to honor the incoming commander Lt. Col. Marc C. Hale on the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Parade Field in San Diego, Calif., Sept. 7. Change of command ceremonies preserve the history, traditions and accomplishments of the battalion through the ceremonious transfer of the battalion colors.
“You are citizens first, and soldiers second; nevertheless your service to our nation is precious,” said Hale, who works as a California Highway Patrol officer. “Be leaders in the public, community and the army.”
Hale enlisted in the Army in 1991 and was commissioned as a second lieutenant through San Diego State University Reserve Officer Training Corps. Having served in Iraq, Kuwait, Hawaii and Afghanistan, he will now prepare his soldiers for successful military careers.
The mission and welfare of the unit are embodied in the service and dedication of the battalion commander.
“Lt. Col. Hale, I know you will take this formation to even greater accomplishments by carrying on the legacy of discipline, trust and mission execution that has made this battalion strong,” said honorable guest Col. Eddie C. Jacobsen, 11th Military Police Brigade commander. “You will join the legacy of commanders who remember [their service] as the most professionally rewarding experiences of their lives.”
In the past two years the battalion has completed multiple firearms training ranges, deployment ceremonies, welcome home ceremonies and annual field training events.
“Soldier readiness is my greatest accomplishment,” said outgoing commander Lt. Col. Elvis Hugee, who has served as an officer in the Army Reserves for 24 years. “Having each soldier deployable seems almost impractical, but this was my goal.”
Based on the current unit readiness status, Hugee has been successful. After two years of reliable service to more than 650 soldiers, outgoing commander, Lt. Col. Hugee is moving on to fill the position of deputy commander in the 11th Military Police Brigade, under Jacobsen.
“You served well and I know you will continue to serve,” said Hugee. “Prepare yourselves for your next promotion by looking and acting like a professional and soldier.”