CAMP PHOENIX, Kabul, Afghanistan, Jan. 27, 2012 – Colonel Andy L. Hall, Commander of the 648th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, a Georgia Army National Guard unit from Columbus, Ga., assumed command of Task Force Hydra and responsibility for the Kabul Base Cluster (KBC) during the official transfer of authority ceremony. The 648th replaces the 26th “Yankee” Brigade, Massachusetts Army National Guard, commanded by Army Brig. Gen. John A. Hammond. The 648th and the 26th Brigades have worked together to ensure a smooth transition of authority in the KBC for over 18 months.

“I look forward to observing your success form the United States this following year,” said Hammond. Hall also recognized the strong partnership that had been built between the two brigades. “We would like to express our gratitude for the way in which you approached this transition” said Hall. “You began the transition with us before you even got here yourself. That level of commitment is unprecedented.”

More than 11,000 service members and contractors live and work on the KBC. The 648th “Hydra” Brigade provides command and control, security and support operations for the nearly 9,000 U.S. and coalition forces operating in the capital region. Attending the ceremony were representatives from several contracting and government organizations as well as coalition forces from Bulgaria, Canada, France and Mongolia.

Deputy Commanding General of United States Forces Afghanistan, Maj. Gen. William E. Rapp, discussed the expectations he has of Task Force Hydra. “You have the technology, the tactics and the know-how to excel.” Maj. Gen Jim Butterworth, the Adjutant General of Georgia, expressed similar confidence. "I am proud of the men and women of the 648th MEB and fully confident that they will accomplish this mission with distinction. I also deeply appreciate the sacrifice and service of their families during this time of deployment and will ensure that the Guard works to keep their needs in mind as well."

Hall commented on the magnitude of mission ahead of the 648th and the unit’s readiness for it. “We have been well prepared to assume this mission. We are a professional organization. We will run hard and work smart and we will play a major role in sustaining the momentum of this campaign”.

Story and photos by Capt. Jacqueline Wren

648th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade

Georgia Army National Guard