TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. - Lt. Col. Michael A. Bowers took command of Headquarters Battalion from Lt. Col. Phillip M. Zeman during the unit’s change of command ceremony at Lance Cpl. Torrey L. Gray Field July 2, 2012.
“It is truly a bittersweet moment,” said Zeman. “It has been challenging, intellectually demanding at times, but absolutely worth it and absolutely rewarding.”
Hq. Bn. Marines marched in formation onto the field with rifles in hand. Beside them stood a formation of 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing Band Marines, playing a number of ceremonial songs, to include the national anthem and the Marines hymn.
In front of the formation, Zeman and Bowers stood at attention in anticipation of the big moment.
After two years as the commanding officer of Hq. Bn., Zeman relinquished command to Bowers, handing over the Marine Corps flag thus transferring the leadership and responsibilities of command to his successor.
“I am deeply humbled to be here,” Bowers said. “I work for the Marines, not the other way around, and I am so proud to do so.”