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NEWS | Nov. 5, 2012

Resolute Warriors bid farewell to one leader, welcome another

By Sgt. Edwin J Rodriguez 7th Sustainment Brigade

U.S. Army Col. Jennifer A. Reinkober assumed command of the 7th Sustainment Brigade from Col. Lawrence A. Kominiak during a change-of-command ceremony, Nov. 1 at McClellan Gym on Fort Eustis, Va.

All participants in the ceremony, including Reinkober and Kominiak, wore Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment, and kept weapons at the ready - a testament to the battlefield experience of Kominiak, Reinkober and the Resolute Warriors of the 7th Sustainment Brigade.

The ceremony's reviewing officer, Brig. Gen. Jeffrey N. Colt, deputy commanding general, 18th Airborne Corps at Fort Bragg, was proud and appreciative of Kominiak's time as commander.

"This ceremony marks the end of another impressive chapter in the 7th Sustainment Brigade's history...you (Kominiak) have done a fantastic job preparing your leaders and Soldiers in expertly managing your resources as you accomplished every mission that came your way," said Colt. "You have done a superb job. Peers and Soldiers can always count on your steadfast hand and your compassionate leadership... you are one of finest Soldier's I have ever served with."

Kominiak assumed command November 2010, and subsequently led the brigade headquarters to Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan from February 2011 to February 2012. The brigade provided sustainment support to U.S. and multinational forces operating in Regional Commands.

Upon returning to Fort Eustis, Kominiak lead the brigade as the Army transitioned from a combative position to sustainment. Kominiak will continue to his next assignment at the Pentagon in Washington D.C.

"It has been an absolute honor and privilege to serve as your commander for the last two years. You are a team of warriors and professionals that provide world class sustainment support....your hard work and dedication has forged this brigade's reputation for absolute excellence," said Kominiak. "I am extremely proud of you and the significant contributions you have made for the brigade, Army and our nation. I wish every 7th Sustainment Brigade Soldier the best."

Reinkober brings a wealth experience to the brigade she once called home. She started her career in 1992 as platoon leader for the now deactivated 870th transportation company, 7th Transportation Group. She feels just as confident now about her troops as she did then.

"I started as a second lieutenant at Fort Eustis, and was grateful for the opportunity to serve with such great noncommissioned officers and officers," said Reinkober. "I feel grateful for the opportunity to serve the brigade again."

Before recently graduating from the National War College, Fort McNair, Washington, D.C., Reinkober was the 18th Airborne Corps deputy G3 at Fort Bragg, N.C. She plans to take the brigade into the future during the unit's transition to an expeditionary brigade.

"Soldiers of the 7th Sustainment Brigade, you look fantastic out there! I look forward to serving as your commander as we embark on this next stage of the 7th's journey," said Reinkober. "We will continue to move forward together charting a new course for the brigade. Resolute, All the way!"

Toward the middle of the ceremony, everyone was reminded how important the "Resolute" brigade is for the Army as Colt concluded his remarks.

"To the Soldiers and leaders standing in formation that represent this great brigade and the multi talented logisticians, please know that you are the life blood of our war fighters, the life's blood of our success," said Colt.

"Your mission is vital to our success and the security of our country. I thank you for your service, leadership and for your many sacrifices. All the way! Resolute, Army Strong!"