By Army 1st Lt. Ashley A. Dellavalle
Combined Task Force Rugged Public Affairs Officer
SHARANA, Afghanistan – Combined Task Force Chamberlain, the 240th Engineer Group, Maine Army National Guard, handed over responsibilities to Combined Task Force Rugged, 36th Engineer Brigade Headquarters, March 27.
During its one-year tour, CTF Chamberlain constructed a 230-foot Bailey Bridge, expanded Forward Operating Base Warrior and created a reception station used to receive more than 3,600 service members. Army Col. Leslie Swartz, CTF Chamberlain commander, thanked the service members and the Afghan people for their hard work and dedication to help rebuild and stabilize the country.
Army Col. Richard Stevens, CTF Rugged commander, promised to continue the operation CTF Chamberlain started as he takes over the CTF Rugged mission.
"We will continue to build quality roads and bases and keep roads safe." said Stevens. "Our military engineering also contributes to the ability of the Afghanistan government to expand its influence, secure its people and promote economic development."
The 240th Engineer Group Soldiers will redeploy back to their home station in Augusta, Maine.