WEBVTT 00:09.430 --> 00:11.319 Good afternoon and welcome to the 00:11.319 --> 00:13.263 change of command ceremony for the 00:13.263 --> 00:15.152 Raptor Battalion . One on the 168 00:15.152 --> 00:18.159 Aviation GS A , the first battalion , 00:18.170 --> 00:21.159 10168 Aviation regiment GS A can trace 00:21.170 --> 00:24.530 its history back to 1959 when it was 00:24.540 --> 00:26.373 originally organized as the 41st 00:26.373 --> 00:28.596 Aviation company in the Washington Army 00:28.596 --> 00:30.707 National Guard located at Camp Murray 00:31.340 --> 00:33.118 through the next 50 years . The 00:33.118 --> 00:35.173 battalion will recast itself several 00:35.173 --> 00:37.340 times to meet the never ending demands 00:37.549 --> 00:40.040 of a changing national defense . In 00:40.049 --> 00:43.229 1988 the 10168 Aviation was designated 00:43.240 --> 00:45.930 an attack battalion consisting of A H 00:45.939 --> 00:48.669 one Cobras and 0 58 Kaiwa Warriors . 00:49.020 --> 00:51.242 But the retirement of the A H one cobra 00:51.330 --> 00:53.689 from the army inventory , the 10168 00:53.880 --> 00:55.830 Aviation regiment was designated a 00:55.840 --> 00:58.139 theater army fixed wing battalion and 00:58.150 --> 01:01.040 was equipped with CH 47 and uh 60 black 01:01.049 --> 01:03.360 Hawk helicopters . These two advanced 01:03.369 --> 01:05.669 airframes would form the backbone of 01:05.680 --> 01:07.736 what would become the one of the 168 01:07.736 --> 01:11.230 assault battalion . In in 2006 , the 01:11.239 --> 01:13.461 battalion transformed to meet the needs 01:13.461 --> 01:15.419 of the army , creating the 10168 01:15.430 --> 01:17.650 General Support Aviation Battalion . 01:18.139 --> 01:20.389 The battalion consists of units located 01:20.400 --> 01:22.360 in five western states during 01:22.370 --> 01:24.330 transformation to its concurrent 01:24.339 --> 01:26.228 configuration . The battalion was 01:26.228 --> 01:28.117 alerted for deployment to support 01:28.117 --> 01:31.480 operation Iraqi freedom from 9 2007 to 01:31.489 --> 01:34.660 2009 . The battalion was designated 01:34.709 --> 01:36.709 aviation task force Kuwait with its 01:36.709 --> 01:38.699 headquarters located in Yari army 01:38.709 --> 01:41.309 airfield camp bearing Kuwait consisting 01:41.319 --> 01:43.375 of units from Idaho and Washington . 01:43.750 --> 01:45.472 The subordinate units were the 01:45.472 --> 01:47.583 headquarters and headquarters company 01:47.583 --> 01:49.639 alpha Company , one of the 168 delta 01:49.639 --> 01:51.690 company , one , the 168 and Echo 01:51.699 --> 01:53.949 Company , one of the 168 . The task 01:53.959 --> 01:56.070 force represented the first battalion 01:56.070 --> 01:57.959 sized aviation structure from the 01:57.959 --> 01:59.848 Washington Army National Guard to 01:59.848 --> 02:02.126 deploy in support of combat operations . 02:02.169 --> 02:04.336 The 1168 Raptor Battalion is preparing 02:04.336 --> 02:06.502 to answer the nation's call once again 02:06.502 --> 02:08.725 early next year in support of operation 02:08.725 --> 02:12.369 Iraqi freedom . Ladies and gentlemen , 02:12.380 --> 02:14.324 please rise for the arrival of the 02:14.324 --> 02:15.324 official party . 03:40.929 --> 03:43.570 Ladies and gentlemen , please stand for 03:43.580 --> 03:45.691 the rendering of honors to the nation 03:45.691 --> 03:47.691 personnel uniform will stand in the 03:47.691 --> 03:49.858 position of attention and not salute . 05:52.859 --> 05:54.970 Please remain standing . I'd now like 05:54.970 --> 05:56.859 to introduce to the 1168 aviation 05:56.859 --> 05:58.970 chaplain , Captain Andre Ong who will 05:58.970 --> 06:00.248 deliver the invocation 06:04.320 --> 06:06.431 if you would please uh bow with me in 06:06.431 --> 06:10.040 prayer . Lord . Uh 06:10.049 --> 06:12.660 we've met here today to honor the work 06:12.670 --> 06:14.837 of two men . We respect and to welcome 06:14.859 --> 06:16.859 two other men . We also respect and 06:16.859 --> 06:18.692 know very well . Now you've been 06:18.692 --> 06:20.748 present with us throughout the years 06:20.748 --> 06:22.859 present during the work of Lieutenant 06:22.859 --> 06:24.859 Colonel Capricci and Sergeant Major 06:24.859 --> 06:27.081 Boyer . You have guided when we haven't 06:27.081 --> 06:29.026 seen you , you've provided when we 06:29.026 --> 06:31.359 thought mere coincidence had favored us . 06:31.519 --> 06:33.241 Your , your word says that you 06:33.241 --> 06:35.019 determine who's in positions of 06:35.019 --> 06:37.186 authority and you make those decisions 06:37.186 --> 06:39.186 for the good of your people . So we 06:39.186 --> 06:41.408 thank you because we have all benefited 06:41.408 --> 06:43.352 from the leadership experience and 06:43.352 --> 06:45.408 expertise of these . Gentlemen . May 06:45.408 --> 06:47.575 this ceremony , the words spoken , the 06:47.575 --> 06:49.797 attention given today truly demonstrate 06:49.797 --> 06:51.852 our gratitude for the sacrifices and 06:51.852 --> 06:54.075 untiring work that they have given us . 06:54.429 --> 06:56.589 We also ask your grace , your wisdom 06:56.600 --> 06:59.000 and your courage to be on the hearts of 06:59.010 --> 07:01.066 Lieutenant Colonel Dent , Sergeant , 07:01.066 --> 07:03.600 Major Spalding . May they lead us all 07:03.609 --> 07:05.553 with vision and may we follow with 07:05.553 --> 07:07.776 confidence , give them endurance to run 07:07.776 --> 07:10.619 a good race and finish strong . And 07:10.630 --> 07:12.686 when the day comes that they move on 07:12.686 --> 07:14.908 from here , may they be remembered with 07:14.908 --> 07:16.741 gratitude , admiration and great 07:16.741 --> 07:18.741 respect . And I pray in your name . 07:19.190 --> 07:19.649 Amen . 07:25.559 --> 07:26.615 Please be seated . 07:32.329 --> 07:34.496 Major General Docherty , Major General 07:34.496 --> 07:36.799 of Tyre Collins , Brigadier General , 07:36.809 --> 07:39.149 Kelly , Brigadier General C Colonel 07:39.160 --> 07:41.049 Turner , distinguished guests and 07:41.049 --> 07:43.382 fellow soldiers of the Raptor Battalion . 07:43.382 --> 07:45.604 Today we honor the outgoing commander , 07:45.604 --> 07:47.716 Lieutenant Colonel David Capricci and 07:47.716 --> 07:49.716 the incoming commander , Lieutenant 07:49.716 --> 07:51.938 Colonel David de Daniel Dent . Sorry as 07:51.938 --> 07:53.882 they perform the change of command 07:53.882 --> 07:56.049 ceremony , Colonel walls . Turner will 07:56.049 --> 07:57.993 serve as the reviewing officer for 07:57.993 --> 08:00.049 today's ceremony . Major Steinbach , 08:00.049 --> 08:02.104 the Battalion executive officer will 08:02.104 --> 08:03.938 serve as the commander of troops 08:03.938 --> 08:05.993 commands . Major Robert Boyer is the 08:05.993 --> 08:07.771 battalion commander major . The 08:07.771 --> 08:09.993 battalion primary staff are the adjunct 08:09.993 --> 08:11.993 major Roger Wold . The intelligence 08:11.993 --> 08:14.049 officer , Captain Judd Bennett , the 08:14.049 --> 08:15.938 operations officer , Major Daniel 08:15.938 --> 08:17.993 Brewer , logistics officer , Captain 08:17.993 --> 08:19.920 Adam Suyat and the communications 08:19.929 --> 08:23.359 officer , Lieutenant Sam Curry . The 08:23.369 --> 08:25.425 commanders for each of the companies 08:25.425 --> 08:27.480 are as follows . HHC is commanded by 08:27.480 --> 08:29.619 Captain Robert Gerson . E company is 08:29.630 --> 08:32.900 commanded by Jason Sano . E company is 08:32.909 --> 08:35.020 commanded by Captain Mary Anne Haig . 08:35.169 --> 08:37.391 The company is commanded by Captain Ben 08:37.391 --> 08:39.669 Gerring Charlie . Company . 1/40 is 08:39.679 --> 08:41.900 commanded by Captain Mitch Slock and 08:41.909 --> 08:44.076 Charlie company . First of the 1/12 is 08:44.076 --> 08:47.000 commanded by Major Ruben Hinson . At 08:47.010 --> 08:48.788 this time , the soldiers of the 08:48.788 --> 08:50.677 battalion would like to present a 08:50.677 --> 08:52.899 bouquet of flowers to Mrs Lisa Capricci 08:52.899 --> 08:54.843 and Mrs Laura Boyer to honor their 08:54.843 --> 08:56.566 faithful service to the Raptor 08:56.566 --> 08:57.566 Battalion . 09:05.859 --> 09:08.026 We'd also like to present a bouquet to 09:08.026 --> 09:10.137 Mrs Julie Dent and Mrs Holly Spalding 09:10.137 --> 09:12.415 to officially welcome them to the unit . 09:32.549 --> 09:34.660 Ladies and gentlemen , at this time , 09:34.660 --> 09:36.660 please direct your attention to the 09:36.660 --> 09:38.882 commander of troops as we begin today's 09:38.882 --> 09:37.250 ceremony . 09:53.010 --> 09:54.010 Ok . 09:58.809 --> 09:59.809 Really 10:04.479 --> 10:05.479 proper . 10:19.799 --> 10:20.799 Uh 10:33.099 --> 10:34.150 So the same day , 10:50.039 --> 10:51.039 right . 10:54.789 --> 10:55.179 Ok . 11:05.340 --> 11:08.799 Right . Ok . 11:31.369 --> 11:33.480 Today , Lieutenant Colonel David Capi 11:33.599 --> 11:35.940 will relinquish command of the 10168 GS 11:36.049 --> 11:38.160 A to Lieutenant Colonel Daniel Dent . 11:38.160 --> 11:40.049 The change of command is a simple 11:40.049 --> 11:42.049 traditional event that is rich with 11:42.049 --> 11:44.271 symbolism and heritage . The key to the 11:44.271 --> 11:46.493 change of command is the passing of the 11:46.493 --> 11:48.438 organizational colors . The colors 11:48.438 --> 11:50.438 represent not only the heritage and 11:50.438 --> 11:52.271 history of the unit but also the 11:52.271 --> 11:54.549 Touchstone and loyalty of its soldiers . 11:54.549 --> 11:54.400 The colors are the commander's symbol 11:54.409 --> 11:56.076 of authority representing his 11:56.076 --> 11:58.242 responsibilities to the organization . 11:58.359 --> 12:00.581 Wherever the commander there is , there 12:00.581 --> 12:02.748 also are the colors , the custodian of 12:02.748 --> 12:05.960 the colors is the command star major as 12:05.969 --> 12:07.802 a senior enlisted soldier in the 12:07.802 --> 12:09.858 organization . He's both a spokesman 12:09.858 --> 12:12.080 for the loyalty concerns of the soldier 12:12.080 --> 12:13.913 and the principal advisor to the 12:13.913 --> 12:15.969 commander . As the ceremony begins , 12:15.969 --> 12:15.799 the command star Major will pass the 12:15.809 --> 12:17.976 colors across the outgoing commander's 12:17.976 --> 12:19.753 heart . For the last time , the 12:19.753 --> 12:21.976 outgoing commander will pass the colors 12:21.976 --> 12:24.087 to the senior commander relinquishing 12:24.087 --> 12:26.309 his responsibility and his authority as 12:26.309 --> 12:28.642 the assumption of command order is read , 12:28.642 --> 12:28.549 the senior commander will pass the 12:28.559 --> 12:30.781 colors and all it represents to the new 12:30.781 --> 12:32.837 commander across the new commander's 12:32.837 --> 12:35.059 heart who assumes the responsibility of 12:35.059 --> 12:37.281 the command . The new commander returns 12:37.700 --> 12:39.756 the colors to the command csar Major 12:39.756 --> 12:41.644 charging him with maintaining the 12:41.644 --> 12:43.756 symbol of command in reverence to the 12:43.756 --> 12:45.533 dedication and loyalty that the 12:45.533 --> 12:47.644 outgoing and incoming commander feels 12:47.644 --> 12:49.867 for the unit . The colors are kept over 12:49.867 --> 12:51.756 the last bras during the transfer 12:51.756 --> 12:53.922 command , cr Major will finally return 12:53.922 --> 12:53.460 the colors to the color bearer . An 12:53.469 --> 12:55.525 enlisted soldier who exemplifies the 12:55.525 --> 12:57.849 high standards of discipline , conduct 12:57.859 --> 12:59.970 and military expertise that merit the 12:59.970 --> 13:02.192 responsibility of bearing the flag that 13:02.192 --> 13:04.026 represents so much to his fellow 13:04.026 --> 13:05.026 soldiers 13:19.559 --> 13:22.140 by authority of paragraph 2-3 A ar 13:22.150 --> 13:24.969 600-20 . Daniel H Dent becomes 13:25.070 --> 13:27.770 commander of 10168 Aviation GS A 13:27.989 --> 13:31.419 effective 17 May 2010 signed Colonel 13:31.429 --> 13:33.940 Wallace Turner Aviation Commanding . 14:12.380 --> 14:14.549 We will now proceed with the command . 14:14.669 --> 14:16.613 Our major change of responsibility 14:16.613 --> 14:18.789 ceremony for the 10168 Aviation GS A . 14:20.270 --> 14:22.048 Today we celebrate the changing 14:22.048 --> 14:24.381 responsibility from the raptor commands . 14:24.381 --> 14:26.381 Star major from commands Star Major 14:26.381 --> 14:28.381 Robert Boyer to commands Star Major 14:28.381 --> 14:31.119 William Spalding . The change of 14:31.130 --> 14:33.241 responsibility ceremony is steeped in 14:33.241 --> 14:35.408 military tradition and serves the dual 14:35.408 --> 14:37.408 function of rendering honors to the 14:37.408 --> 14:39.297 departing command , Sar Major and 14:39.297 --> 14:41.408 providing official recognition of the 14:41.408 --> 14:43.408 transfer of authority as senior non 14:43.408 --> 14:45.352 commissioned officer of the Raptor 14:45.352 --> 14:47.463 battalion to the incoming command Sar 14:47.463 --> 14:49.630 Major . The symbol of this position is 14:49.630 --> 14:51.852 the NCO . So the sword bearer for today 14:51.852 --> 14:54.299 is specialist Paul Bernar the 66th 14:54.729 --> 14:56.429 aviation soldier of the year 14:59.000 --> 15:00.880 headquarters 66 theater Aviation 15:00.890 --> 15:03.489 Command dated 17 May 2010 . The 15:03.500 --> 15:05.167 following soldier assumes the 15:05.167 --> 15:07.333 responsibilities and duties as command 15:07.333 --> 15:09.710 star major of first battalion 168 15:09.719 --> 15:12.000 Aviation regiment Command star Major 15:12.049 --> 15:15.020 William case falling effective 17 May 15:15.030 --> 15:18.309 2010 signed Colonel Walsh , Colonel 15:18.320 --> 15:19.876 Walsh and Turner commanding 16:04.739 --> 16:08.419 no company 16:22.940 --> 16:26.900 attention to orders . Headquarters , 16:26.909 --> 16:28.909 joint force headquarters , state of 16:28.909 --> 16:30.965 Washington . Permanent orders number 16:30.965 --> 16:34.320 12503 , dated 5 May 2010 . The 16:34.330 --> 16:36.497 Department of the army has awarded the 16:36.497 --> 16:38.719 meritorious service medal to Lieutenant 16:38.719 --> 16:40.929 Colonel David F Capricci for 16:40.940 --> 16:43.107 exceptional meritorious service from 2 16:43.107 --> 16:46.359 November 2008 through 17 , May 2010 . 16:46.369 --> 16:48.091 While serving as the battalion 16:48.091 --> 16:50.202 commander , Lieutenant Colonel Capi , 16:50.202 --> 16:51.980 selfless service and unwavering 16:51.980 --> 16:53.813 dedication ensured effective and 16:53.813 --> 16:55.536 professional response to state 16:55.536 --> 16:57.258 emergency operation as well as 16:57.258 --> 16:59.313 preparation to conduct full spectrum 16:59.313 --> 17:01.202 aviation operations in support of 17:01.202 --> 17:03.091 overseas contingency operations . 17:03.599 --> 17:05.821 Colonel Capricci actions are in keeping 17:05.821 --> 17:07.988 with the finest traditions of military 17:07.988 --> 17:10.099 service and reflect great credit upon 17:10.099 --> 17:12.099 himself . His unit , the Washington 17:12.099 --> 17:14.043 Army National Guard and the United 17:14.043 --> 17:16.099 States Army given under my hand this 17:16.099 --> 17:18.349 fifth day of May 2010 . Sign Brett D 17:18.359 --> 17:20.581 Docherty . Brigadier general commanding 17:26.150 --> 17:28.229 attention to orders headquarters , 17:28.239 --> 17:30.295 joint forces headquarters , State of 17:30.295 --> 17:33.530 Washington . Permanent arm number 13701 17:33.540 --> 17:37.160 dated 17 May 2010 . The Department of 17:37.170 --> 17:39.226 the army has awarded the Mar Service 17:39.226 --> 17:41.380 medal as command Sar Major , Robert E 17:41.579 --> 17:43.969 Boyer for outstanding a marist service 17:43.979 --> 17:45.979 in performance of duty as battalion 17:45.979 --> 17:48.201 command Sar Major for the one , the 168 17:48.201 --> 17:50.368 generals to support aviation battalion 17:50.489 --> 17:52.545 command star majors Boyer , selfless 17:52.545 --> 17:54.545 service and unwavering care for the 17:54.545 --> 17:56.267 soldiers ensured effective and 17:56.267 --> 17:58.211 professional leadership throughout 17:58.211 --> 18:00.267 peacetime emergency , wartime , full 18:00.267 --> 18:02.267 spectrum and overseas contingency . 18:02.267 --> 18:04.433 Aviation operations command star Major 18:04.433 --> 18:06.545 Boyer actions are in keeping with the 18:06.545 --> 18:08.211 finest traditions of military 18:08.211 --> 18:10.211 leadership and reflect great credit 18:10.211 --> 18:12.211 upon himself . The 11168 GS A , the 18:12.211 --> 18:14.378 Washington Army National Guard and the 18:14.378 --> 18:16.656 United States Army given under my hand , 18:16.656 --> 18:19.199 the 17th day of May 2010 signed Brett D 18:19.209 --> 18:21.431 Doctrine . Regular General commanding . 18:51.989 --> 18:52.989 Please be seated 18:58.050 --> 19:00.217 at this time . The soldiers of the 101 19:00.217 --> 19:02.217 168 would like to give gifts to the 19:02.217 --> 19:03.439 departing commander . 19:39.790 --> 19:42.012 At this time , the soldiers of the 1168 19:42.012 --> 19:43.846 would like to give a gift to the 19:43.846 --> 19:45.512 departing commander , Major . 20:21.630 --> 20:23.797 Ladies and gentlemen , Colonel Wallace 20:23.797 --> 20:26.019 Turner will now address the battalion . 20:29.359 --> 20:31.303 I'd say this day just seems to get 20:31.303 --> 20:33.303 better and better . You know , this 20:33.303 --> 20:35.526 morning , uh early this morning we case 20:35.526 --> 20:37.692 the colors for uh the steelheads bravo 20:37.692 --> 20:39.748 company , one of the 168 A unit that 20:39.748 --> 20:41.970 was mentored and forged in the shape by 20:41.970 --> 20:44.026 a great command team . Dave . Dave . 20:44.026 --> 20:45.748 You and Lisa have uh just done 20:45.748 --> 20:47.859 outstanding work over the uh the past 20:47.859 --> 20:50.026 24 months and I'll share just a little 20:50.026 --> 20:52.248 story with you . I Dave , I'll not soon 20:52.248 --> 20:54.248 forget the uh the look in your eyes 20:54.248 --> 20:56.359 when you heard the news that you were 20:56.359 --> 20:56.140 selected to command the Raptors 20:56.819 --> 20:59.439 disbelief . Uh There was excitement and , 20:59.449 --> 21:01.727 and yeah , I saw a bit of terror there . 21:01.969 --> 21:04.030 Uh I , in my words , today won't do 21:04.040 --> 21:06.560 justice to the job you've done . And uh 21:06.569 --> 21:09.030 during your tenure as Raptor six , you 21:09.040 --> 21:11.439 were given a simple sounding task . One 21:11.449 --> 21:13.393 that said , reset , reorganize and 21:13.393 --> 21:15.780 retrain the battalion and where 21:15.790 --> 21:17.846 appropriate get the Raptors ready to 21:17.846 --> 21:19.401 meet the challenges and the 21:19.401 --> 21:21.512 contingencies that laid ahead and you 21:21.512 --> 21:23.734 and Lisa can hold your heads high . You 21:23.734 --> 21:25.957 both have done just a magnificent job . 21:26.050 --> 21:28.150 You're both shining examples of 21:28.160 --> 21:30.510 selfless service and what our National 21:30.520 --> 21:32.760 Guard is all about . He took the job 21:32.770 --> 21:34.937 knowing that it meant great commitment 21:34.937 --> 21:36.937 and sacrifice and what the audience 21:36.937 --> 21:39.103 probably doesn't know is that you took 21:39.103 --> 21:41.569 the job and commuted from Spokane every 21:41.579 --> 21:45.170 week for two years to this very hanger 21:45.739 --> 21:47.628 to ensure the tasks that you were 21:47.628 --> 21:49.739 assigned were completed to standard . 21:49.739 --> 21:51.850 There's no way for me to thank you uh 21:51.850 --> 21:53.795 Truly for your commitment and your 21:53.795 --> 21:56.170 sacrifice . Sergeant , Major Boyer Bob 21:56.469 --> 21:58.747 done outstanding and a tremendous work , 21:58.747 --> 22:00.858 tremendous job shaping and caring for 22:00.858 --> 22:02.858 the soldier of the Raptor , Italian 22:02.858 --> 22:05.080 from the hot plains of Fort Sill to the 22:05.080 --> 22:07.247 vast edges of Kuwait and Iraq . You've 22:07.247 --> 22:09.025 led your soldiers through tough 22:09.025 --> 22:11.589 training deployments and in preparation 22:11.599 --> 22:13.766 for a return to theater . And those at 22:13.766 --> 22:15.988 Fort Sill will tell you that he was not 22:15.988 --> 22:18.099 the first guy in the ice cream line , 22:18.099 --> 22:20.300 but he was close . I'm happy to report 22:20.410 --> 22:22.743 that through this command team's effort . 22:22.743 --> 22:24.632 So our Major Boyer and Lieutenant 22:24.632 --> 22:26.670 Colonel Capi , uh your efforts and 22:26.680 --> 22:28.849 leadership , the raptors are reset , 22:28.890 --> 22:31.250 reorganized and ready . Very well done 22:31.260 --> 22:34.969 guys , very well done . We're fortunate 22:34.979 --> 22:37.090 here to have an unparalleled depth in 22:37.090 --> 22:39.349 leadership and our formation that I can 22:39.359 --> 22:41.581 honestly tell you has not existed since 22:41.581 --> 22:43.637 I've been here and I'm truly pleased 22:43.637 --> 22:45.859 and excited for Lieutenant Colonel Dent 22:45.859 --> 22:47.970 his wife , Julie , command Sergeant , 22:47.970 --> 22:50.137 Major Spalding and his wife Holly , as 22:50.137 --> 22:52.359 they take over the helm , in my opinion 22:52.359 --> 22:54.526 of one of the finest battalions in the 22:54.526 --> 22:57.020 National Guard Raptors . Lieutenant 22:57.119 --> 22:59.270 Colonel D is no stranger to you . He 22:59.280 --> 23:02.270 deployed OIF as your operations officer 23:02.280 --> 23:04.599 where his work ethic and high motor won 23:04.609 --> 23:06.720 him great praise on the floors of the 23:06.859 --> 23:09.709 kick on the flight line on the flag 23:09.719 --> 23:11.930 football field and during my visit the 23:11.939 --> 23:14.229 basketball court . But all kidding 23:14.239 --> 23:16.689 aside , this is one of the finest and 23:16.699 --> 23:18.866 toughest and most dedicated soldiers . 23:18.869 --> 23:21.036 I've had the pleasure to work with and 23:21.036 --> 23:23.390 I'm confident in his abilities . Dan , 23:23.400 --> 23:26.209 your mission is not an easy one , but 23:26.219 --> 23:28.330 Dave has left you in great posture to 23:28.330 --> 23:31.209 move forward . Completed are the task 23:31.219 --> 23:33.869 reset , retrain , reorganize your task 23:33.880 --> 23:36.310 is to con continue to train hone the 23:36.319 --> 23:38.349 edge , deploy the theater , theater 23:38.359 --> 23:41.329 with speed , power and courage falcon . 23:54.180 --> 23:56.347 We will now hear comments from command 23:56.347 --> 23:57.791 star Major Robert Boyer . 24:03.560 --> 24:05.504 Good afternoon , Brigadier General 24:05.504 --> 24:07.560 Doherty com state command star Major 24:07.560 --> 24:09.616 Sweeney , Colonel Turner , our Major 24:09.616 --> 24:11.869 Eden , single guest and soldiers of the 24:11.880 --> 24:14.469 Raptor battalion . It's been almost 24:14.479 --> 24:16.859 four years since I got the position of 24:16.869 --> 24:19.150 the TYA Major . It seems like the 24:19.160 --> 24:21.900 journey just started as I reflect back 24:22.060 --> 24:24.393 on the accomplishments of the battalion . 24:24.393 --> 24:26.504 It , it makes me proud , proud that I 24:26.504 --> 24:28.671 was given the opportunity to be a part 24:28.671 --> 24:30.739 of it when I was told that I was 24:30.750 --> 24:34.520 selected for the position I thought to 24:34.530 --> 24:37.420 myself what a challenge the battalion 24:37.430 --> 24:39.597 was transformed into a general support 24:39.597 --> 24:41.652 aviation battalion . And while the , 24:41.810 --> 24:44.032 while the transformation was going on , 24:44.032 --> 24:45.699 the battalion got notified of 24:45.699 --> 24:47.754 mobilization in support of operation 24:47.754 --> 24:49.920 Iraqi freedom . I really had no idea 24:49.930 --> 24:51.930 what to expect . Lieutenant Colonel 24:51.930 --> 24:53.763 Linton was a brand new battalion 24:53.763 --> 24:55.750 commander and I was a brand new 24:55.760 --> 24:58.780 battalion commander major and we were 24:58.790 --> 25:01.189 embarking on the first deployment that 25:01.199 --> 25:03.900 this battalion has done . It was 25:03.910 --> 25:06.719 overwhelming and exciting opportunity 25:06.729 --> 25:08.951 for me and I was really looking forward 25:08.951 --> 25:11.062 to it . My wife and my kids supported 25:11.062 --> 25:13.790 me , the command supported me . And so 25:13.800 --> 25:15.522 did the soldiers of the Raptor 25:15.522 --> 25:17.689 battalion once completing the train up 25:17.689 --> 25:19.800 and the mobilization at Fort Sill , I 25:19.800 --> 25:22.022 felt that we were more than prepared to 25:22.022 --> 25:24.244 do our mission that was given to us . I 25:24.244 --> 25:26.078 was actually amazed at the young 25:26.078 --> 25:28.300 soldiers who stepped up and met the day 25:28.300 --> 25:28.270 to day challenges of the mission , 25:29.349 --> 25:31.516 soldier care and miss accomplishment , 25:31.959 --> 25:34.015 how we're being done with enthusiasm 25:34.015 --> 25:36.260 and professionalism upon returning from 25:36.270 --> 25:38.829 the deployment . I felt a sense of 25:38.839 --> 25:40.895 accomplishment . I was proud of this 25:40.895 --> 25:44.619 battalion in November 2008 when 25:44.630 --> 25:46.297 Lieutenant Colonel Linton and 25:46.297 --> 25:49.520 Lieutenant Colonel Capricci did the 25:49.530 --> 25:53.339 change of command . It seemed it would 25:53.349 --> 25:56.060 be seamless . They were both excellent 25:56.069 --> 25:58.140 commanders , their leadership styles 25:58.150 --> 26:00.319 were different . However , they were 26:00.329 --> 26:02.119 both just as effective . Both 26:02.130 --> 26:04.241 commanders allowed the NC Os to be NC 26:04.241 --> 26:06.609 Os and they respected my input . I 26:06.670 --> 26:08.837 couldn't ask for better on either side 26:09.479 --> 26:11.590 since returning and going through the 26:11.590 --> 26:13.701 reset , the battalion is preparing to 26:13.701 --> 26:15.757 go again . Although I won't be going 26:15.757 --> 26:17.890 with you . You will all be in my 26:17.900 --> 26:20.770 thoughts and my prayers . The success 26:20.780 --> 26:23.113 of this battalion depends upon teamwork . 26:23.989 --> 26:26.520 So I'd like to thank the team starting 26:26.530 --> 26:28.589 with the A gr soldiers who hold 26:28.599 --> 26:30.710 everything together from the planning 26:30.710 --> 26:32.821 to the execution , to the technicians 26:32.821 --> 26:34.766 who maintain the equipment in this 26:34.766 --> 26:36.988 battalion to allow us to do our mission 26:37.189 --> 26:39.411 and to the traditional soldiers without 26:39.411 --> 26:41.633 you , we wouldn't even have a battalion 26:41.660 --> 26:43.716 dedicated soldiers that can complete 26:43.716 --> 26:46.199 the mission . I do take comfort in 26:46.209 --> 26:47.931 knowing the fact that you have 26:47.931 --> 26:49.876 excellent leadership in Lieutenant 26:49.876 --> 26:51.820 Colonel Dent and command our major 26:51.820 --> 26:53.820 Spalding . Both of them are full of 26:53.820 --> 26:55.653 energy and eager to take on this 26:55.653 --> 26:58.750 enormous responsibility . I thank you 26:58.760 --> 27:01.599 all for your support making the the 27:01.609 --> 27:03.776 mission of the Raptor bot of success . 27:03.776 --> 27:05.998 And so for the last time , Raptor seven 27:05.998 --> 27:06.998 out , 27:17.680 --> 27:19.791 the Colonel Capricci will now address 27:19.791 --> 27:20.791 the unit , 27:26.520 --> 27:28.464 General Doherty . Colonel Turner , 27:28.464 --> 27:30.631 Chief Man War Kruger State Commander , 27:30.631 --> 27:32.409 Major Sweeney , retired general 27:32.409 --> 27:34.619 officers , distinguished guests , my 27:34.630 --> 27:36.930 wonderful wife , the soldiers of the 27:36.939 --> 27:39.390 Raptor Battalion . Welcome . 18 months 27:39.400 --> 27:41.640 ago , the leadership allowed me the 27:41.650 --> 27:43.539 opportunity to command the finest 27:43.539 --> 27:45.594 battalion in the Washington National 27:45.594 --> 27:47.706 Guard and probably the National Guard 27:47.706 --> 27:49.817 as a whole . When I took command , my 27:49.817 --> 27:49.729 intent was to foster a team environment 27:49.949 --> 27:51.782 and create an organization where 27:51.782 --> 27:53.893 soldiers were proud to serve and want 27:53.893 --> 27:56.116 to attend training the leadership , the 27:56.116 --> 27:58.171 staff and the soldiers embrace these 27:58.171 --> 28:00.227 ideas and the accomplishments of the 28:00.227 --> 28:02.393 Raptor Battalion in the last 18 months 28:02.393 --> 28:04.727 prove we were successful in these goals . 28:04.727 --> 28:06.893 Give you an idea in two week , 22 week 28:06.893 --> 28:09.116 training periods , we executed over 700 28:09.116 --> 28:12.390 flying hours , transported 6000 ROTC 28:12.400 --> 28:14.859 cadets pumped over 60,000 gallons of 28:14.869 --> 28:17.150 jet fuel , thousands of hours of ground 28:17.160 --> 28:19.271 and air maintenance . And oh , by the 28:19.271 --> 28:21.493 way , we successfully passed in arms as 28:21.493 --> 28:24.449 a battalion and all . And we just 28:24.459 --> 28:26.459 finished the cul training rep for B 28:26.459 --> 28:28.681 company . So the train has never slowed 28:28.681 --> 28:30.869 down . Thank you . These successes and 28:30.880 --> 28:33.047 many more directly attributed to you , 28:33.047 --> 28:35.102 the soldiers of the Raptor battalion 28:35.102 --> 28:36.880 and your dedication to duty and 28:36.880 --> 28:38.824 selfless service . On top of these 28:38.824 --> 28:40.991 events , we had to reset personnel and 28:40.991 --> 28:43.158 equipment to prepare the battalion for 28:43.158 --> 28:45.380 this next appointment . Due to all your 28:45.380 --> 28:47.547 hard work and dedication to this end . 28:47.547 --> 28:49.602 I am confident we have met this goal 28:49.602 --> 28:51.547 and the battalion can now focus on 28:51.547 --> 28:53.713 training for its upcoming mobilization 28:53.713 --> 28:55.436 and deployment . Your incoming 28:55.436 --> 28:57.602 commander , Lieutenant Colonel Dent is 28:57.602 --> 28:59.824 no stranger to any of you . He's one of 28:59.824 --> 28:59.750 the finest officers I've served with in 28:59.760 --> 29:02.800 my 22 career year career . He knows the 29:02.810 --> 29:04.921 battalion , he knows the soldiers and 29:04.921 --> 29:06.866 he knows the mission and I know by 29:06.866 --> 29:09.032 working with him for more years than I 29:09.032 --> 29:10.866 ever care to admit to that . The 29:10.866 --> 29:13.032 battalion is in no finer hands . I ask 29:13.032 --> 29:15.032 you to show Lieutenant Dentist same 29:15.032 --> 29:16.866 loyalty , dedication and mission 29:16.866 --> 29:18.921 accomplished , and soldier care that 29:18.921 --> 29:20.866 you showed me . Julie . Thanks for 29:20.866 --> 29:22.977 giving Dan up . I know it's difficult 29:22.977 --> 29:24.921 and with the upcoming deployment , 29:24.921 --> 29:26.979 Italian . Thank you , Lieutenant 29:26.989 --> 29:29.160 Colonel Dan Dan . I'm giving you a 29:29.170 --> 29:31.337 battalion that I will stack up against 29:31.337 --> 29:33.448 any active or reserve battalion and I 29:33.448 --> 29:36.550 know can succeed every time . I wanna 29:36.560 --> 29:38.616 thank everybody here for the support 29:38.616 --> 29:40.671 and guidance and I don't wanna go by 29:40.671 --> 29:40.489 name because I know I will mess it up . 29:40.500 --> 29:42.556 It'll be like the Academy Awards and 29:42.556 --> 29:44.722 somebody will be left out . So there's 29:44.722 --> 29:44.270 actually one person I want to single 29:44.280 --> 29:46.459 out and that's my wife is 17 years of 29:46.469 --> 29:49.069 Lisa . She supported me through this 29:49.079 --> 29:50.912 the whole time allowing me to be 29:50.912 --> 29:52.746 successful and further my career 29:52.746 --> 29:54.912 traveling around the street , Gallivan 29:54.912 --> 29:56.801 across the country . She's home , 29:56.801 --> 29:58.857 raising our two Children , Katherine 29:58.857 --> 30:01.023 and Christopher , bring her successful 30:01.023 --> 30:03.246 practice soccer , baseball , lacrosse , 30:03.246 --> 30:05.357 music and doing everything that keeps 30:05.357 --> 30:07.357 our household together . So I don't 30:07.357 --> 30:09.412 have to worry about it . Thank you , 30:09.412 --> 30:12.219 Raptors Cougars . I'm sorry , Ruben , 30:12.670 --> 30:15.449 the uniformly known as Gooey Ducks . I 30:15.459 --> 30:17.626 wish you all the best and good luck in 30:17.630 --> 30:19.019 the future . Thank you . 30:30.780 --> 30:33.002 You will now hear comments from command 30:33.002 --> 30:35.224 star Major William Spaulding the Raptor 30:35.224 --> 30:36.947 Battalion , command star Major 30:40.219 --> 30:43.170 General Doherty , Commander Major 30:43.180 --> 30:46.729 Sweeney , distinguished guests , 30:46.739 --> 30:49.072 fellow soldiers of the Raptor Battalion . 30:49.072 --> 30:51.128 Thank you again for honoring us with 30:51.128 --> 30:53.072 your presence . I'd like to take a 30:53.072 --> 30:55.239 moment to express my sincere gratitude 30:55.239 --> 30:57.560 and honor in accepting this position as 30:57.569 --> 30:59.625 Simon is a command Sar major for the 30:59.625 --> 31:01.969 Raptor Battalion . I'd also like to 31:01.979 --> 31:04.339 thank my wife , Holly , my wife , who 31:04.349 --> 31:07.359 for 33 years has stood by me over a 31:07.369 --> 31:11.010 countless tdysats , a full deployment . 31:11.449 --> 31:13.505 And another one in the near future , 31:13.780 --> 31:15.891 she's the foundation of my strength . 31:17.069 --> 31:19.390 She keeps me going every day . I love 31:19.400 --> 31:22.160 you , Holly , thank you . We just 31:22.170 --> 31:24.339 completed an outstanding culminating 31:24.349 --> 31:26.571 training event . And during this time , 31:26.571 --> 31:29.130 I witnessed motivated soldiers who not 31:29.140 --> 31:30.862 only made mission but exceeded 31:30.862 --> 31:33.750 standards in doing so . The strength of 31:33.760 --> 31:36.040 this in the strength of this battalion 31:36.050 --> 31:38.739 is in our troops . Every one of you , 31:39.589 --> 31:41.619 that fact will make this a truly 31:41.630 --> 31:45.079 rewarding experience for me . I ask 31:45.089 --> 31:47.145 that every one of you stay motivated 31:47.145 --> 31:49.367 during the difficult months ahead as we 31:49.367 --> 31:51.589 prepare for another annual training and 31:51.589 --> 31:53.811 another deployment in just six months , 31:54.579 --> 31:57.339 whether you fly helicopters , drive 31:57.349 --> 32:00.969 trucks , maintain equipment , cook , 32:01.400 --> 32:04.520 administer or supply . You all have an 32:04.530 --> 32:07.750 important role as a senior NCO for this 32:07.760 --> 32:10.550 battalion . I answer too , Lieutenant 32:10.560 --> 32:12.782 Colonel Dan , our battalion commander , 32:12.782 --> 32:15.339 but I also will be there with you . I 32:15.349 --> 32:17.410 will work with you to ensure we are 32:17.420 --> 32:19.410 successful in all our missions , 32:19.609 --> 32:21.776 whether abroad or here in the state of 32:21.776 --> 32:24.540 Washington . Thank you again for coming 32:24.550 --> 32:26.439 to day . Who a Raptor battalion , 32:37.359 --> 32:39.719 Colonel Daniel Dent Raptor Six , who 32:39.739 --> 32:41.850 have addressed the unit for the first 32:41.850 --> 32:45.550 time Doherty , Commander Major Sweeney , 32:46.020 --> 32:48.187 retired general officers , Colonel Mrs 32:48.187 --> 32:50.076 Turner , Commander , Major Eden , 32:50.076 --> 32:52.298 senior leaders , soldiers , friends and 32:52.298 --> 32:54.464 family . Thank you for sharing a truly 32:54.464 --> 32:56.242 great day in the life of a very 32:56.242 --> 32:58.242 grateful soldier to being entrusted 32:58.242 --> 33:00.409 with the command of troops . Is one of 33:00.409 --> 33:00.209 the army's great traditions . As I 33:00.219 --> 33:02.386 rushed to meet this challenge , I pray 33:02.386 --> 33:04.608 that God will grant me the gallantry to 33:04.608 --> 33:06.552 lead this unit in the time honored 33:06.552 --> 33:06.550 tradition of excellence that this 33:06.560 --> 33:09.260 battalion and indeed this state demands 33:09.589 --> 33:10.589 r 33:26.170 --> 33:27.170 imagine . 33:41.119 --> 33:44.030 Ok . Ok . 33:50.310 --> 33:51.310 Really ? 33:59.680 --> 34:01.902 Please rise for the playing of the army 34:01.902 --> 34:02.902 song . 34:47.820 --> 34:50.219 001 . 34:54.209 --> 34:55.487 Ladies and gentlemen , 34:59.300 --> 35:01.411 ladies and gentlemen , this concludes 35:01.411 --> 35:03.411 the ceremonies . Please join us for 35:03.411 --> 35:05.300 reception in the south end of the 35:05.300 --> 35:03.870 hangar .