Alabama National Guard brigade changes command

Release #2013110201

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Col. Lee Ellis addresses the Soldiers of his new unit, Nov. 2, 2013. Photo by Spc. William Frye

FORT MCCLELLAN, AL (11/02/2013)(readMedia)-- Brig. Gen. David R. Brown relinquished command of the 31st Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Brigade, headquartered in Tuscaloosa, to Col. Lee M. Ellis in a ceremony at the Alabama National Guard Fort McClellan Army National Guard Training Center Saturday, Nov. 2, 2013.

Brown noted his success was not of his accord but of his Soldiers and officers during his run as commander that began in 2011.

"Brig. Gen. Brown did a great job, but Col. Ellis will build upon what Brown has done and continue to achieve great things," said Lt. Col. Brian Naugher, deputy brigade commander.

"It is bittersweet to leave the greatest and most successful brigade in our state," said Brown.

"Gen. Brown, you have accomplished a lot here, you have been extremely successful," said Maj. Gen Charles Gailes, Task Force 51 Commander, who acted as reviewing general for the ceremony. "Col. Ellis is a distinguished leader and well respected."

"I stand here truly humbled and honored as your commander," Ellis said.

Ellis challenged his new soldiers to maintain their personal readiness.

"We could have a mission at any moment – ensure your readiness, and consider your Army Values," Ellis added.

In a unit that Ellis noted for its accomplishments - domestic and abroad - he reminded the soldiers, "The Strength of the Army is the strength of the Soldiers."

"I am all yours - I am 100 percent here for you," added Ellis.

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