The 7th Mission Support Command held a deactivation ceremony for the 773rd Civil Support Team, May 9, 2025, at Panzer Kaserne.

The unit's deactivation was part of a U.S. Army-wide force reduction and reorganization plan aimed at consolidating forces to enhance readiness and mission effectiveness.

U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Karen Monday-Gresham, commanding general of the 7th MSC, presided over the ceremony and issued the formal order to case the unit’s colors.

“This unit stood as a shield between uncertainty and safety,” said Monday-Gresham. “Their professionalism, precision and ability to integrate with both military and civilian emergency services made them a key asset to our Army and our allies. Today we honor not only the unit’s deactivation, but the immense contributions its Soldiers made to global security.”

The ceremony drew a large turnout from across the Kaiserslautern military community, including former unit members, civilian officials, friends, family and partners from across Europe. Attendees gathered to reconnect and reflect on the 773rd's distinguished service.

Since its activation in 2009, the 773rd CST has played a vital role in U.S. Army Europe-Africa operations, completing missions in more than 19 countries. These included Spain, the United Kingdom, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Italy, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Bulgaria, Bosnia, Serbia, Montenegro, Kosovo, Estonia, and others. The team also participated in multinational exercises, including Toxic Valley, Stallion Shake, African Lion and Justified Accord.

As the Army's only active-duty CST stationed outside the continental U.S., the 773rd CST provided rapid hazard assessment and consequence management capabilities for missions across the operational area. The team also bridged critical gaps between military preparedness and civilian emergency response.

For U.S. Army 1st Sgt. Nang Cash, the deactivation held deep personal meaning.

“I’ve served in the Army for many years, but this is the first time I’ve ever helped inactivate a unit,” said Cash. “It’s emotional. You train, lead, and build with your Soldiers day in and day out, and then one day, you’re the one standing there casing the colors. That’s not something I’ll forget.”

She also reflected on what the 773rd represented not only to the Army, but to those who wore its patch.

“This unit stood for readiness, adaptability and professionalism,” she said. “We went where we were needed, worked with incredible partners and handled missions that required precision and trust. That doesn’t disappear just because the colors are cased.”

Cash encouraged her fellow Soldiers to carry forward the unit’s spirit and standard.

“If I could offer one last piece of advice, it’s this: be proud of what we did here,” she said. “Not everyone gets to be part of something like this. Remember the legacy, and wherever you go next — carry that with you.”