Eagle BELVOIR
TRICARE changes coming Jan. 1 Page A8
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October 12, 2017
Belvoir garrison gets new CSM By Adrienne Anderson Staff writer Garrison Command Sgt. Maj. Billie Jo Boersma relinquished her position to Command Sgt. Maj. Corey Perry, Oct. 3 at Thurman Hall. Before the official ceremony, Boersma was awarded the Legion of Merit from Maj. Gen. Michael Howard, commanding general of Joint Force Headquarters-National Capital Region and the U.S. Military District of Washington. Lt. Col. Christopher Tomlinson, then garrison commander, said it was a bittersweet day as they let go of an accomplished leader who is also a Soldier’s Soldier, he said, referring to Boersma. “You have been an unwavering model of discipline, candor and charity – a true team player,” Tomlinson said. “That’s what describes Command Sgt. Maj. Boersma the best. He listed several of her accomplishments over the past year, including revitalizing the monthly senior enlisted leadership council and being a strong proponent for BOSS, or Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers, a program dedicated to improving single Soldiers’ lives. “This last year has presented many successes and challenges. But, through most of this we have kept our focus on the idea of servant leadership,” Tomlinson said, “through accomplishing the mission, taking care of Soldiers and civilians, and doing our best to shape our outcomes.” Boersma described her time at garrison command as one of the most meaningful jobs she’s had in the 25 years she’s been in the Army. “Thanks for allowing me to serve with and for each and every one of you,” she said, adding that those within the garrison never wavered in their achievement toward greatness.
Photos by Paul Lara
Fort Belvoir Garrison’s new Command Sgt. Maj. Corey Perry addresses the audience during a change of responsibility ceremony Oct. 3. “Stay strong through change. Together you will never fail,” she said. Boersma told Perry that he’ll take the garrison to new heights. “You have been flexible and patient during this entire transition with all of my drama. You are a true professional,” she said. Her only advice for him is that he leads the team with his heart. “This team will help make sure you succeed,” she said. Boersma who is retiring from the Army, said the one thing she won’t miss is her military-required hairstyle. “I am ready to be done with the buns,” she said. Tomlinson welcomed Perry to the command team and said he looked forward to working with him. “I, and you, know you are about
U.S. Army Garrison Fort Belvoir Command Sgt. Maj. Corey Perry, left, receives the Garrison Flag from Lt. Col. Christopher Tomlinson during a change of responsibility ceremony in Thurman Auditorium Oct. 3. Perry replaced outgoing Command Sgt. Maj. Billie Jo Boersma. to fulfill some tremendous shoes and ago, I never could have imagined responsibilities here at the garrison that I would have such an extraorleadership,” Tomlinson said. “But, dinary and humbling opportunity to we know you have what it takes and serve Fort Belvoir Garrison,” Perry are up to the challenge.” said, adding he’s grateful for the “When I joined the Army, 23 years chance to serve in the position.
Save the dates! All these events are open to everyone. Prostate cancer support group Today, 1-2, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Belvoir Hospital Urology Clinic jane.l.hudak.ctr@mail.mil.
Fall Career Fair 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 26 Community Center Come ready to impress, with resumes
Tax volunteers needed Monthly training provided through 2017 703-805-4370
Kingman Gate change Kingman Gate is now open Egress only, weekdays from 6-8 p.m. Except for legal holidays