‘Engine’ behind Fort Jackson welcomes new CSM

U.S. Army Garrison – Fort Jackson bid farewell to one senior enlisted advisor and welcomed another during a ceremony held Oct. 6 at Victory Field. Command Sgt. Maj. Brie Kotula passed responsibility for Fort Jackson’s garrison to Command Sgt. Maj. Hector Rodriguezpabon during the ceremony. The ceremony is an enactment of a 251-year-old Army tradition steeped in time-honored values and traditions. The key part of the ceremony is the passing of the unit colors symbolizing the seamless transfer of responsibility and unwavering care for Soldiers, Department of the Army Civilians, and families of the garrison. Col. David Gaugush, garrison commander, lauded Kotula for her efforts to help the Fort Jackson community.

“I could count on your candor,” he said. “You were always steadfast in your commitment to the mission, and your first thought was always concerning our garrison teammates. you stayed true to who you are as a person and a professional, always. “As a Garrison CSM, you’ve been involved in a wide range of actions and events and accomplishments, but that all quickly fades with time. Your legacy and what is truly important is how you impacted the lives around you, and everything else just pales in comparison.” He added she was a prime example of how to lead and to teach others – through coaching and validation. “That’s