New commander for 129th Regiment, Regional Training Institute

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SPRINGFIELD, IL (06/23/2014)(readMedia)-- SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – The Illinois National Guard's 129th Regiment, Regional Training Institute gained a new commander during a change of command ceremony, June 21, at Camp Lincoln in Springfield, Illinois.

Col. Joseph Schweickert of Peoria, Illinois, took on a new position as chief of staff for the Illinois National Guard. In early June, Col. Paul Fanning of Chestnut, Illinois, took over command of the training institute.

Fanning said there is a lot to be done and he is excited about this opportunity.

The ceremony is a military tradition deeply rooted in history and dates back to the times of the Roman Legion. In that period, military organizations developed flags that were unique to the organization with specialized colors and designs. When Soldiers followed their leaders into battle, they kept sight of the flag. If the banner still waved after the conflict, it was a sign their side had won. Having this position of importance, the flag was incorporated into change of command ceremonies. The organizational banner was exchanged in public for all to see the one who holds the flag is the unchallenged leader of the armies. Modern day ceremonies are principally symbolic, yet it still indicates to all the authority of the incoming commander.

(Left) Col. Joseph Schweickert of Peoria, Illinois, and (right) Col. Paul Fanning of Chestnut, Illinois, catch a laugh while Brig. Gen. Michael Zerbonia of Chatham, Illinois with Joint Force Headquarters, speaks during a change of command ceremony for the 129th Regiment, Regional Training Institute, June 21, at Camp Lincoln Springfield, Illinois. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Aleah M. Castrejon, Illinois National Guard Public Affairs)

Col. Paul Fanning of Chestnut, Illinois, receives the colors and takes command of the 129th Regiment, Regional Training Institute, June 21, at Camp Lincoln Springfield, Illinois. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Aleah M. Castrejon, Illinois National Guard Public Affairs)