5/5 ADA assumes Garrison command of COB Speicher

By Sgt. Tony White

The 149th Brigade Combat Team (BCT) completed a transfer of authority with the 5th Battalion, 5th Air Defense Artillery Regiment (ADA) during a ceremony Monday at Contingency Operating Base (COB) Speicher.

The 5/5 ADA assumed control of the Garrison command post at the base from the 149th BCT effective immediately. The unit is responsible for maintaining the living conditions of service members and civilians living at the base. The unit also oversees the base force protection plan.

"We have a disciplined team that is dedicated to serving Soldiers, sailors and airmen across the COB," said Lt. Col. Daniel P. Sauter, III, 5/5 ADA commander, during his speech. "The "Dragonslayers" understand the importance of ruthlessly enforcing the standards and we will be good teammates.

"During our transition we quickly learned that we have an invaluable resource in the proactive, dedicated, selfless contractors and civilians who make COB Speicher run on a daily basis," he continued. "We look forward to working with each of you and your organizations."

During their transition period at the operating base, Sauter and his troops quickly saw they will have large shoes to fill trying to replace the departing 149th BCT.

"Col. Charles Jones and Command Sgt. Maj. Eric Shumacher, (149th BCT commander and command sergeant major, respectively) your accomplishments are seen not only in the physical improvements throughout the COB, but more tellingly in the eyes and words of the Soldiers, leaders, contractors and civilians," Sauter said to the his outgoing counterparts. "You have handed us an installation that is fully functional and we will continue to improve our battle position."

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