As the American military increases its ranks in Europe, a brigade from the 1st Cavalry Division changed command as the departing leader shared some inspiring words with his former unit.

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During a ceremony on Thursday morning, the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team changed leadership from Col. Justin Reese to Col. John Gilliam, before Gilliam helped case the unit’s flag in preparation for deployment, according to the Killeen Daily Herald. Gilliam took command of the brigade of about 4,000 soldiers, while Col. Justin Reese shared some parting words.

To the officers, NCOs and troopers of Greywolf, I am proud to have had the privilege to hunt with the pack. You are really good at what you’re supposed to be good at. You are ready to do whatever the nation asks of you. Trust each other, have confidence in each other and never forget your sacred responsibility to each other.

-Col. Justin Reese

Reese will serve as the Commander of Operations Group at the Joint Multinational Readiness Center in Hohenfels, Germany. The Fort Hood brigade is also going to Germany, replacing the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division in Grafenwöhr.

Deployment to Europe

In May, FOX 44 reported that the Department of the Army had announced the brigade would deploy as part of a regular scheduled rotation to Europe. Russia invaded Ukraine over four months ago, while the United States and other NATO nations continue to help Ukraine by providing ammunition and weapons for its defense.

According to the Associated Press, during a meeting with NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg, President Biden says the United States will expand its military presence in Europe, keeping 100,000 troops in Europe for the “foreseeable future”.

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