Eagle BELVOIR
Fourth of July celebration at the Lorton Workhouse, Page A6
www.belvoireagleonline.com
July 6, 2017
Prime Power gets new commander By Adrienne Anderson Staff writer 249th Engineer Battalion (Prime Power)’s Lt. Col. Julie Balten relinquished command to Lt. Col Daniel Kent, Friday at a change of command on Belvoir’s Long Parade Field. “Here we are, ready to begin another storied history in this battalion,” said Maj. Gen. Richard Stevens, deputy chief of engineers and deputy commanding general. “Here we are, to recognize what is perhaps the most significant achievement of an officer’s career – and that is command. It is the ultimate vote of confidence by one’s superior officers. It is a job of immense personal satisfaction and, at times, unrelenting pressures. But, changes of command are inevitable and a ceremony such as this is a history event.” It’s a public demonstration of the continuity of leadership, he said, and shows the dedication to those who put on the uniform every day. Passing through the gates of Fort Belvoir reminded him of the battalion’s history and its creations, he said.
Photos by Paul Lara
From left, Maj. Gen. Richard Stevens, Deputy Commanding General, USACE; Lt. Col. Julie Balten, outgoing Battalion Commander; Lt. Col. Daniel Kent, incoming Battalion Commander, at 249th Engineer Battalion change of command ceremonies on Fort Belvoir’s Long Parade Field, Friday. “The Black Lions are the keepers of Fort Belvoir’s Engineer legacy, and they are amazing,” Stevens said. The Soldiers within the unit are
249th Engineer Battalion presents, Color Guard presents arms during change of command ceremonies on Fort Belvoir’s Long Parade, Friday. Lt. Col. Daniel Kent assumed command from Lt. Col. Julie Balten.
on duty, all day, every day, and “these Soldiers are truly sentinels of freedom. They are making a difference each and every day,” he said, adding the unit is one-of-a-kind within the Defense Department. Thanks to Balten’s steadfast and calm leadership, Stevens said the battalion has only gotten better under her command. He described her as having unparalleled dedication to family, the battalion and the mission, and delicately balanced each. Balten said without the leadership of those who supported her and the support of the Soldiers within the unit, the mission couldn’t happen. The unit plays a crucial part, helping with mission-critical projects and emergency situations all over the world and locally. For example, Balten said C Company, 249th Engineer Battalion helped on Belvoir during an emergency. “(They) heeded the call and provided emergency electrical power,
by deploying a power plant to critical communications facilities here on Fort Belvoir,” she said. “Their quick response and 24-hour operations provided the facilities with a reliable, primary means of power for several weeks and remained on 24hour call.” Stevens welcomed Kent and his family, adding that Kent brings a wealth of knowledge and experience with the ability to “take this battalion to even greater heights,” Stevens said. Kent said not everyone gets to command the best unit in the Army, but he was grateful for the opportunity. “It’s truly an honor to serve this world-class unit as your commander,” he said. “I am humbled; grateful; proud; and, most of all, excited to serve with you as we face the nation’s contingency and emergency power requirements wherever and
Save the dates! All these events are open to everyone. Float-in movie Moana, July 20 O Club 7:30 p.m., $3 per person
Relaxation workshop series Next series begins Aug. 9 2 – 3:30 p.m., Bldg. 200. Register at 703-805-2967
Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band USO concert Aug. 31, Pullen Track Field Bring blankets and low chairs
Retiree Appreciation Day Sept. 8 Specker, Barden, Main Exchange 703-806-4551