FORT EUSTIS, Va. –
The 382nd Transportation Theater Opening Element, Special Troops Battalion, 7th Transportation Brigade (Expeditionary), held an inactivation ceremony at Fort Eustis, Feb. 6, as a result of changes to the Fort Eustis transportation mission.
"The Army needs a leaner transportation brigade with expeditionary capability," said U.S. Army Maj. Christopher Garvin, Special Troops Btn. executive officer. "In becoming leaner, the 7th TBX is inactivating and re-stationing multiple units and headquarters."
The 382nd TTOE was designed to provide additional transportation expertise to the 7th TBX, enabling the organization to perform theater opening and distribution operations.
The 382nd TTOE was first formed Nov. 3, 1944 as the 3382nd Quartermaster Service Detachment, and officially activated Dec. 12, 1944 in the Philippines. After several inactivations and re-designations, the unit was activated Oct. 16, 2006 at Fort Eustis as the 382nd Transportation Detachment, later re-organized as the 382nd TTOE.
The 382nd TTOE is the first unit in the brigade to be inactivated, according to Garvin.
"It has been a learning experience for our team as we managed the draw-down of personnel and equipment to ensure our soldiers are taken care of," said Garvin. "The 382nd has consistently performed well and I am confident the soldiers of the 382nd will continue to excel in their service to the nation in their new capacity supporting other units [at Fort Eustis] and around the Army."
Capt. Matthew Castiglione, 382nd TTOE commander, thanked the 382nd TTOE Soldiers during his address to the unit.
"I am proud of all your hard work and dedication, enduring vigilance and professionalism," said Castiglione. "I truly believe the 382nd TTOE's unique capability will be activated again one day and continue to build on its legacy."
Garvin, who spoke on behalf of Lt. Col Noah Cloud, Special Troops Btn. commander, shared Castiglione's sentiments.
"I'm proud to have been associated with the 382nd TTOE and to have served with its Soldiers," said Garvin. "Casing the guidon does not erase all that these great Soldiers and leaders have accomplished in the past or will accomplish in the future."