KAISERSLAUTERN, RP, GERMANY –
U.S. Army Reserve Col. Faith Junghahn took command of the Medical Support Unit, 7th Mission Support Command, in a ceremony officiated by the 7th MSC Commander Brig. Gen Wanda Williams at Kleber Kaserne, Germany, on Sept. 11, 2022.
The 7th MSC is the only U.S. Army Reserve command headquartered outside the continental United States.
Before the ceremony began, Williams gathered the Soldiers on site and awarded the former commander, Army Reserve Col. Trent Loiseau, the Army Commendation Medal to honor his interim leadership of the MSU since taking over at the beginning of the year. She then directed the transfer of the unit´s guidon, symbolizing the transition of the unit´s command before giving a speech to bid farewell to Loiseau and welcome Junghahn.
Williams said that Loiseau increased the unit’s standing with the United States Army and Air Force here in Europe along with NATO partners during several major exercises.
“During Col. Loiseau’s time in command, the MSU provided superior support during Defender 22 Europe and medical training oversight for Vigorous Warrior 22, Saber Strike 22 and Swift Response 22,” Williams said.
Williams introduced the new MSU commander by saying that Junghahn’s military and medical resume make her a perfect fit for the command of a specialized health care unit.
“Colonel Junghahn comes to us with an extensive medical background, across more than 25 years of successful military service. She holds a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from the University of Wisconsin and is a graduate of the Command and General Staff College,” said Williams. “Faith, you are the right leader, with the right experience, at the right time. And I have every confidence that you will succeed. Welcome to the team, Col. Junghahn."
As the outgoing commander, Loiseau then took the podium to say goodbye to his Soldiers, thanking several by name. Turning to Williams, Loiseau said, “You told me that as a result of every command, you will become a better person, and I better understand you now.”
Junghahn began her inaugural speech to the MSU by reminding the audience that she assumes command on the 21st anniversary of the 9/11 attack which started the Global War on Terror.
“Today, I want to take a moment to remember the day, September 11.”
Jughahn said she served in Germany during the attack and noted many changes the world and the Army has gone through since then. She said she was coming full circle by coming back to Europe to work again in a unit with continued importance in today´s Army.
“We are a multifunctional force, supporting global missions,” said Junghahn, adding that she expected her Soldiers to remain brave when conducting future operations.
Junghahn finished her speech by telling her troops that they are among the best of the medical support units in the army, but to continue to be technically and tactically ready for new challenges to come.
“We must lean forward, always forward.”