May 17, 2016 –
FORT SHERIDAN, Ill. – First Army’s 3rd battalion, 335 Infantry Regiment, 157th Infantry Brigade, conducted a change of command ceremony on May 15, 2016 at Fort Sheridan, Illinois.
Col. Todd Zollinger, 157th Infantry Brigade commander, presided over the ceremony where Lt. Col. Jason A. Grider assumed command from Lt. Col. Andrew C. Dillon, outgoing commander.
“This is the only reserve battalion I have that’s over 100 percent strength. They conduct rigorous training that keeps the soldiers motivated,” Zollinger shared with attendees. “Almost 80 percent have met their professional military education requirement. Colonel Dillon, I appreciate your commitment to building a professional regiment.”
Dillon shared his final remarks to the soldiers of his command.
“I really love command. I know I have been incredibly demanding of you,” he said. “Our main effort has always been focused around training, (and) improving the training for up to five thousand soldiers. Our motto has set the standard and you have done that. I thank you.”
Grider gave brief remarks to the soldiers of the Blackhawk battalion.
“It’s obvious (that) I am joining an amazing organization. This unit can execute any mission at any time,” he said. “I believe the sky is the limit for us.”
The Blackhawk battalion will be mobilized for a yearlong mission to support the 120th Infantry Brigade, First Army in 2017.