Incoming 104th Division (Leader Training) Command Sgt. Maj. Neil J. Pierce assumes responsibility from outgoing Command Sgt. Maj. William C. Phipps in a ceremony August 15 in Waybur Theater, at Fort Knox, Ky.
FORT KNOX, Kentucky — Observing strict physical and social distancing requirements, Command Sgt. Maj. Neil J. Pierce took over for outgoing Command Sgt. Maj. William C. Phipps as Command Sergeant Major for the 104th Division (LT) in a change of responsibility ceremony at 3:30 p.m., Aug. 15 in Waybur Theater. The ceremony is one of time-honored tradition that represents a formal transfer of authority and responsibility.
104th Training Command (LT) commanding general, Brig. Gen. Rodney J. Fischer, gave a special welcome to all the members of the Pierce and Phipps families who attended virtually; as well as those Soldiers from the Division.
Fischer praised Phipps for his work while serving as the 104th Division Command Sergeant Major. “It’s an honor to stand here today as the new division commander for this milestone in your career,” Fischer said.
| Command Sgt. Maj. Phipps bids farewell to the Timberwolves during the Change of Responsibility. |
Phipps thanked his family, his Soldiers, and his leaders for supporting him during his time as command sergeant major.
“It’s not about me, it’s about the Soldiers I had the honor to lead along the way. Without them I wouldn’t be here,” Phipps said. “Without my family’s support and sacrifice, I wouldn’t be here” he added.
Pierce, the incoming command sergeant major, thanked Phipps for his guidance during this transition to his new assignment. “It’s been an honor to serve with him and to know him the last eight years,” Pierce said.
| Prior to his change of responsibility ceremony, Command Sgt. Maj. Phipps shows his Timberwolf pride during a morning PT session. | Command Sgt. Maj. Phipps receives a farewell gift from his battle buddies in 2nd Brigade, 104th Division (LT) |