FORT KNOX, Ky. – The 1st Theater Sustainment Command (TSC) conducted an assumption of responsibility ceremony, Jan 11, at the Waybur Theater.
During the ceremony, Maj. Gen. Flem B. “Donnie” Walker, Jr., commanding general, 1st TSC, officially recognized Command Sgt. Maj. Bernard P. Smalls, Sr. as the new command sergeant major (CSM) for the 1st TSC.
Smalls, now known as Blackjack 7, has worked in his role for the past 60 days. He arrived to Fort Knox on November 10, and immediately went downrange to check on the welfare of the troops.
Prior to working at the 1st TSC, Smalls came from Ft. Bragg, N.C. where he served as the CSM of the 3rd U.S. Army Expeditionary Sustainment Command.
Walker spoke on how Smalls exemplifies the Army Core Values.
“He is an absolute winner who embodies our seven Core Army Values, understands unequivocally the importance of standards and discipline, and knows what right looks like,” Walker said. “Command Sergeant Major Smalls will do great things here with us and I have full confidence in him.”
Smalls spoke about the continued legacy of the 1st TSC.
“This premier sustainment command is the only one of its kind in our Army,” said Smalls. “To be a part of something so unique and distinct is not taken lightly. Since its activation, it’s provided sustainment operations for over 68 years.”
Smalls said he looks forward to his role in mission support, leading Soldiers and civilians and providing sound guidance as a member of the 1st TSC.
Before the ceremony, attendees took photos with Sgt. Blackjack, a live pony mule, serving as the unit’s mascot.