RALEIGH, N.C. – Service members assigned to the North Carolina National Guard’s most diverse brigade converged onto an enclosed assembly hall to welcome a new leader at their headquarters here April 2, 2017.
U.S. Army Col. Jeffrey Bain, a Tar Heel native and military career logistician took command of the 60th Troop Command from Col. Ephraim E. Grubbs, III.
“I’m thrilled to be taking over the most diverse brigade sized unit in the NC Army National Guard,” said Bain.
Bain began his military career as a power generator mechanic assigned to Bravo Company, 230th Support Battalion, 30th Infantry Brigade (Mechanized)(Separate), NCARNG in September 1987. He received his commission, as a second lieutenant, from the Campbell University Reserve Officer Training Corps in 1990. He has commanded Soldiers from the platoon to battalion levels, as well as deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.
“Be ready, be proactive and be flexible. Working together we can continue to meet all missions assigned to the 60th TC, to make sure we have mission accomplishment,” said Bain.
In addition to welcoming the new leader during the ceremony, the successes of the outgoing commander are celebrated. Grubbs is moving on to be the NCARNG’s senior administrative officer after 30 months leading the brigade.
“I humbly stand before you today without any regret, and with more pride in my body than I can explain in words. Col. Bain, I’ll leave it to you to find the perfect words, nouns, verbs, adjectives or sounds to explain a tremendously talented group of men and women that make-up the most awesome brigade in the state, region and nation, and on a daily basis execute the multiple missions assigned to 60th TC. You’re truly in for the ride of your life,” said Grubbs.
With an administrative background, Grubbs’ next assignment supporting the six brigades of the NCARNG should be enjoyable.
Family members, friends, distinguished guests and Soldiers attended the ceremony. Also, the 11 units from the “Skill and Courage” brigade rendered honors to the former and current leadership.
These units included Special Operations, Field Artillery, Explosive Ordnance Disposal, Civil Support, Recruiting and Retention, Music, Public Affairs and Military History. All of them are actively involved with operations supporting the Tar Heel state and the nation on a daily basis.