JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. -- U.S. Army Col. James Martin transferred command of Army Support Activity-Fort Dix to U.S. Army Col. Charles Durr during a change of command ceremony at Sharp Field here, Aug. 8.
ASA-Fort Dix is responsible for two large annual Army Reserve training exercises known as WAREX and Combat Support Training Exercise in addition to supporting weekend range and schoolhouse training. Joint Base MDL continues to support and conduct reserve training, mobilization and demobilization operations. It is one of the largest mobilization sites in the nation and a major training center for the northeast United States for Army Reserve and National Guard Soldiers.
During change of command ceremonies the passing of the colors symbolizes the transfer of authority and allegiance of the Soldiers from the outgoing to incoming commander.
Brenda McCullough, Installation Management Command Readiness director, hosted the ceremony and thanked Martin for his service and welcomed Durr to the installation.
“There’s a saying that the most valuable gift that you can give someone is your time,” said McCullough. “Today you are giving your time to honor Col. James Martin, and to welcome Col. Charles Durr.”
McCullough expressed her certainty that Durr will do well as the new ASA commander and Joint Base MDL deputy commander-Army.
“I am fully confident that you will lead this garrison with the same professionalism, pride and expertise that you’ve demonstrated throughout your career,” said McCullough. “I know that you will continue work started by Col. Martin while bringing new ideas and vision to ensure the garrison continues to enable the readiness of Soldiers working and training at ASA Dix while also taking care of families.”
Martin passed command to Durr and then addressed his unit and gathered guests, and thanking them for their presence and for creating a great environment on the joint base during his tenure.
“Leaders create environments,” said Martin. “It’s the quality of leaders here at the joint base and at ASA- Fort Dix that create the environment for collaboration, success and partnership.”
Martin then addressed Durr and expressed his confidence in him as the new ASA commander and Joint Base MDL deputy commander.
“You’re the right person at the right time for this job,” said Martin. “May you and your family grow to love this community as much as I have.”
Following Martin’s speech, Durr introduced himself and thanked those in attendance for their support.
“Nobody really wants to hear what the incoming commander says, they want to see what he does,” said Durr.
Durr concluded the ceremony stating how eager he was to begin his new role as the new ASA-Fort Dix commander and Joint Base MDL deputy commander, and showing what he plans to do.
“We are happy to be here and we feel up to the challenge. We’re eager to get started.