PARWAN PROVINCE, Afghanistan – The last task force of the 10th Combat Aviation Brigade took the reins from the 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade during a transfer-of-authority ceremony at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, Nov. 20.
Task Force Phoenix of the 10th CAB stood alongside members of Task Force Knighthawk of 3rd CAB, who were officially marking the conclusion of a 12-month deployment.
TF Knighthawk leaves behind a legacy in BAF long to be remembered.
"To be called for by name on some of the most challenging and important tactical, logistical and humanitarian missions is a great testament for us," said Lt. Col. Thomas Smedley, TF Knighthawk commander.
The task force flew more than 36,000 hours, transported in excess of 78,000 passengers, moved approximately 5.1 million pounds of cargo, evacuated an estimated 4,500 patients and conducted around 150 named deliberate operations. Knighthawk soldiers proved that no matter what the year presented them they would complete the mission in support of Operation Enduring Freedom X-XI.
"When the plan was constantly changing, when the weather was marginal and when the enemy was waiting, the Knighthawk team could be depended on to make the mission successful," said Smedley, a native of Richmond Hill, Ga.
As McKernan assumed command, he said he is sure his Soldiers are well-prepared for the mission ahead.
"I find great confidence in the fact that this unit is highly trained and led by the best [non-commissioned officers] and officers with whom I've ever had the pleasure of serving," said McKernan, a native of Haddon Township, N.J.
The unit has two prior deployments under its belt since the activation of 3rd General Support Aviation Battalion, 10th CAB, in 2006.
"We stand ready to serve the command and the soldiers of this great coalition team,” said McKernan. “We will continue the safe successes of our predecessors wherever we go in Regional Command-East and we look to make our own mark and solidify our reputation as competent, confident aviators who make the needs of the ground force our top priority."