JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska - The 1st Squadron, 40th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division, welcomed a new commander during the squadron’s assumption of command ceremony June 13, 2013 at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska.
Lt. Col. Mark D. Federovich accepted the squadron’s colors as the outgoing commander, Lt. Col. Clinton Baker, relinquished them during the traditional “Passing of the Colors” event.
Federovich, a native of Fort Rucker, Ala., commissioned into the Infantry in 1997 after graduating from George Washington University where he earned a bachelor’s degree in international affairs. Some of his past Army positions include multiple commands, overseas assignments, and combat deployments.
Federovich is assuming command of a unit with a rich history dating back to 1941. In 2005 the 1-40th, also known as The Denali Squadron, became part of the 4-25th IBCT (ABN), and soon thereafter deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2006/2007. The unit was awarded the Valorous Unit Award for its extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy during the 14-month, counterinsurgency operations deployment.
The 1-40th deployed again in 2009/2010 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, earning the Meritorious Unit Award for its exceptionally meritorious service while across a wide area of Afghanistan.
On its most recent deployment to Afghanistan, the 1-40th Cavalry partnered with the Afghan National Army to increase stability within the nation during their 2011/2012 deployment.
Recent training missions such as last winter’s field training exercise, a jump into Deadhorse, Alaska, and a rotation at the Joint Readiness Training Center have honed the squadron’s operational abilities and increased individual cavalry soldier skills.
Outgoing commander, Lt. Col. Clinton Baker, said he was honored to be a part of the Denali Squadron and for the chance to lead the unit and its Soldiers.
“This squadron is absolutely packed full of talented, committed professionals who have excelled in every mission,” said Baker. “This squadron accomplished every assigned mission with skill and enthusiasm.”
Federovich said he is grateful for the opportunity to command the Denali Squadron and proud to be a part of the organization. He took a moment to address the formation saying he is confident the squadron will thrive and set the standards for excellence.
Joining the new commander at the ceremony was his wife, Carla, and his two children, Kate and Robert.