“As I reflect on the accomplishments of this company, it is clear that Capt. Horswill is a leader that is dedicated to not only preparing her Soldiers for their next mission, but further developing them as individual Soldiers and members of this great Nation,” said Lt. Col. Robin-Desty Husted, STB commander and host of the ceremony.
"The training this company has executed from individual through collective levels are truly an amazing accomplishment,” said Husted. “It takes more than dedicated Soldiers, it takes special leaders that have the ability to lead, follow and inspire their subordinates to strive for greatness. Rose is one of those leaders.”
The change of command ceremony is steeped in military tradition and serves as a dual functions of rendering honors to the departing company commander and proving official recognition of command to the incoming company commander, said 1st Lt. Lydia Washburn, the 261st SC executive officer and master of ceremony.
“Command represents a special period in an officer’s career,” said Washburn. “It is at this point when officers are entrusted with making decisions, both clearly and impartially, that affects every member within their command. They must possess the foresight to anticipate problems before they arise and be willing to accept the tremendous responsibility that, in time of war, may be called upon to make the most difficult decisions, those involving the lives of their Soldiers,” she added.
During the ceremony, Horswill had nothing but good things to say about the Soldiers in the formation.
“I could not have done this job without a great battle buddy in 1st Sgt. Jimmy Fuller, [first sergeant of the 261st SC],” said Horswill. “Thank you for your constant support and everything you do day-in and day-out to take care of these Soldiers. I am grateful to have had the chance to work with some awesome officers.”
The 261st SC, made up of about 40 Soldiers, is a small element that provides signal support to the brigade, 1st Armored Division and units across Fort Bliss.
“For such a small company, we have had a lot on noncommissioned officers step up to take on the role as a platoon sergeant,” said Horswill. “All of the NCOs in this company are subject matter experts that will meet the standard and exceed expectations, regardless of the obstacles. I am immensely proud of every one of you, and sincerely thank you for all of your hard work.”
During Horswill closing comments, she had one last statement before officially turning her duties to Kilker.
“For many of you, we have a long Army careers ahead of us, and I am sure we will meet again,” said Horswill. “This is just the beginning, and I will now wish you luck, say my farewells, and leave knowing the 261st SC is in good hands with Capt. Kilker, and will continue to excel.”
After Horswill officially signed off the net, Kilker took the podium to say a few words.
“Today we are saying goodbye to Capt. Horswill, a commander who has created a base of standards that in my opinion are the pillar of the best company in the brigade,” said Kilker. “Your commitment to standardization was apparent throughout the training cycle and change of command process.”
Kilker went on to say, to 1st Sgt. Fuller and the NCO’s, Soldiers and officers of 261st SC, we will build on these standards and we will be brilliant.
After the ceremony, Horswill said her farewells to the guest, Soldiers, and leaders of the brigade. She will continue he service at the division.