A change in command brings a number of new variations to any formation, but one constant is the strong sense of presence of both incoming and outgoing commanders.
Lt. Col. Sean K. Hubbard assumed control of Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, III Corps from Lt. Col. Craig A. Martin, at Abrams Gym, Fort Hood, Texas, July 3, 2018.
The ceremony highlighted the varying endeavors of Army command, with Lt. Col. Hubbard acknowledging his predecessor’s success, while also recognizing his own new responsibilities.
“It’s with great humility that I accept the responsibility of command today, and to take on the task of ensuring we maintain our ability to fight and win wars, and also the responsibility of taking care of Soldiers and their families.” Hubbard said as he looked out at his new formation.
“I fully understand that command is a privilege, and an honor, and I do not take this lightly,” Hubbard expressed.
As the reviewing officer for the ceremony, Brig. Gen. Kenneth L. Kamper, Chief of Staff, III Corps, summed up the moment by pointing out that timing is always a crucial factor in determining leadership.
“Our Army always seems to get the right leader in place, at the right time.” Kamper noted. “Sure enough, Lt. Col. Sean K. Hubbard is the right leader here and now to take command.”
As with any change of command, the command is recognized for their efforts in leading their formations, but Lt. Col. Martin chose to showcase those following his orders; and emphasize the overall accomplishments of the battalion.
“It’s not about the commander. It’s about the men and women that stand on the field in front of you. I cannot begin to thank them enough for all their sacrifices that started with a deployment, followed by an incredibly busy year refitting and training, to again deploy for another year. We just kept going the whole time.”
Lt. Col. Martin isn’t moving far, as he takes a U.S. Army War College fellowship at Texas A&M University, and neither are his memories as a Phantom Warrior.
“Today I stand before you and I am proud to call myself a phantom warrior. The phantom warriors of HHBN, III Corps have achieved immense success before I was in command, while I was in command, and I am sure their storied performance will continue well into the future.” Martin expressed.