FORT CARSON, Colo. – Military Change of Command ceremonies are recognized as being an important part of the any military organization, and is steeped in tradition. On Oct. 4, ‘Ivy Warriors’ of the 4th Infantry Division continued this custom by formally welcoming Maj. Gen. Matthew W. McFarlane as the new commander of 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson and bade farewell to Maj. Gen. Randy A. George during an official ceremony at Founders Field at Fort Carson, Colorado.
Prior to his arrival at Fort Carson, McFarlane served as the senior military assistant to the Deputy Secretary of Defense Office of the Deputy Secretary of Defense at the Pentagon. McFarlane comes to the Division well-recognized for his professional experience and leadership prowess, and is looking forward to his new opportunity of leading the 4th Infantry Division.
“Your reputation is known across the Army, and across our globe,” McFarlane said. “(My wife) and I are honored to join your ranks and serve you.”
Gen. Michael X. Garrett, the U.S. Forces Command (FORSCOM) commanding general, holds McFarlane’s reputation in high regard.
“Matt is one of our Army’s premier operation leaders. He is a remarkable officer with incredible experience,” Garrett said. “I know Matt personally, and I know that he is the exact right leader to lead this division through its next chapter in its history.”
Garrett also expressed his appreciation to Maj. Gen. George for his dedication to both the improvement of Fort Carson, 4th Infantry Division and the overall readiness of its Soldiers to fulfill the Army’s mission now and in the future.
“Readiness is about more than training,” Garrett said. “Maj. Gen. George as Fort Carson’s senior commander worked to build stronger relationships with community leaders, and leveraged their support to facilitate an unparalleled community partnership.”
Aside from the transition of authority to McFarlane, the event also marked the conclusion of George and his family’s fourth stint at the Mountain Post.
“We’ve got so many wonderful memories of our time in the 4th Infantry Division. George said. “While 30 years in the Army might leave some feeling like they have no real home, Patty and I don’t. Every time we come back to Fort Carson, we know we’re coming home.”
McFarlane later explained during a media interview that he is looking forward to working with those who serve on Fort Carson and the greater Colorado Springs community.
“(I’m) incredibly honored and humbled to serve with the Soldiers on this great installation, on this post and in this great military community,” McFarlane said. “By all regards, from everything I had heard before I got this assignment, this place is a tremendous place to serve, and over my first week and a half on the ground it has certainly proven to be a fact.”
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