Taking Command

 

Inherent in every change-of-command is a transition time period known as the Transfer of Authority, or TOA (pronounced TOE-UH). The TOA involves several days for the outgoing commander to orient the incoming commander to as many aspects of the unit mission as time allows before the actual change of command. Whether or not the TOA is successful really is a hit or miss. When it is a hit, it can be a spectacular success. But when it is a miss, it can be a very painful process that creates a lot of friction and, in the worst case scenario, a lot of resentment. Normally the success of a TOA falls somewhere in the middle. Often times, the outgoing command team will have a difficult time letting go, handing over the reins, or releasing their grip. For the purpose of my latest change-of-command there were some unique circumstances. The most obvious difference is that this TOA only involved the command team. My CSM and I were here to replace the outgoing commander and CSM. Everyone else would remain, which created an excellent continuity. However the TOA, which should have been easy in this case, was stressful because the outgoing commander simply did not want to let go and was extremely resentful towards me. CSM and I had nine days of orientation leading up to the change-of-command ceremony. During that time the outgoing commander had very little to say and when we'd be touring the installation with one of our staff sections he was nowhere to be found. The outgoing CSM was exactly the opposite. He, in contrast, was extremely professional and ready to help at every turn. But the outgoing commander simply did not want to let go and seemed in denial all the way up to the end that his tour was up. It was a very awkward thing to be a part of. Fortunately, it did not detract from a very successful TOA provided by the staff and subordinates of our future command. By the time the ceremony arrived we were both more than ready to take charge.

 

Our change-of-command ceremony took place on the morning of 18 September. It was held in a "clam shell" tent across the street from our headquarters. The event was well attended. Every brigade-level command team on Bagram was in attendance. There were also several garrison command teams from other locations that had flown in to attend. Our task force Deputy Commanding General was present, along with the TF Command Sergeant Major. In true Coalition spirit, a Canadian Brigadier General presided over the time-honored tradition of passing the colors from outgoing to incoming commander. My speech was short - the incoming commander always keeps the talk down to three minutes or less. But it felt amazing to be taking command again. For me, this would be my third command over the last six years, with two of them, including this one, in a combat zone. Nothing beats command. It's the best job to have.

 

Immediately following the ceremony CSM and I hosted a reception that was well-catered. It was also very well attended. There was an excellent vibe to the event and an electric intensity to the moment. I genuinely felt embraced by the Bagram community. There is a lot of work to get accomplished over the coming year. If done correctly, it will completely transform Bagram forever. As soon as the reception was over we rolled up our sleeves and got started. A year will go by fast. I believe this coming year will be extremely rewarding. It will certainly be challenging. But that's what leaders embrace - a challenge.