The Alabama Guard's 62nd Troop Command welcomes new commander

Release # 2013091701

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MONTGOMERY, AL (09/17/2013)(readMedia)-- The Alabama National Guard's largest major command, the 62nd Troop Command, welcomed a new commander as Brig. Gen. Charles Gable relinquished command to Col. John Hill, Sept. 15, 2013.

"All good things must come to and end," Gable said. "Commanding is such a privilege. A lot of responsibly comes with it, but also a lot of satisfaction. I am proud of all we have accomplished together."

Brig. Gen. Gable has commanded the 62nd Troop Command since November 2011. He will continue service in the Alabama Guard in a yet to be announced position.

Many different kinds of units fall under the 62nd Troop Command to include engineers, field artillery, aviation, firefighters, and the 1/167th Infantry, which recently returned from deployment.

"Gen. Gable commanded the largest major command in the state. He has done a fantastic job bringing Troop Command forward," said Maj. Gen. Sheryl Gordon, assistant adjutant general. "Col. Hill is a battle-tested soldier and is extremely qualified for the job, and we wish him success."

"I am here to serve the individual soldiers," said Hill. "I want to continue the success of Troop Command and continue to make the Alabama Army National Guard better: to increase readiness, to increase its capability, and to help make the unit more qualified to perform tasks at hand."

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DSC_1027: The passing of colors ceremony is a tradition that symbolizes the passing of responsibility, authority, and accountability of command from one leader to another. Once passed from the outgoing commander around to the incoming commander, the guidon is then returned to the front of the formation. The new commander then officially assumes his or her role.

DSC_0988DAVIS: Many different kinds of units fall under the 62nd Troop Command. Each battalion is represented at the ceremony with soldiers and their guidons.