The 38th Main Support Battalion held a change of command on September 23 at the building 9 hanger at Stout Field in Indianapolis, IN. LT. Col. Kevin A. Vedder received command of the unit during the 2:00 pm ceremony from Lt. Col. Walter E. Colbert, who had commanded the unit since March 2005. Six platoons from the 38th MSB, distinguished visitors and family members attended the ceremony. Along with focusing on the change of command, the ceremony was a time of reflection of the battalion’s past achievements and a reference of deployments and events to come.

 

A great emphasis on family support was the theme for the ceremony. “We all wear the uniform knowing that we could not do what we do without the support of our families,” said outgoing commander Colbert. The change of command ceremony, with passing of the colors, is a timed honored tradition to symbolize the transition in command authority.

 

As the new commander, Vedder will serve as the 24th and also the last commander of the 38th MSB, as during his tenure the 38th MSB will be redesignated the 519th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, effective November 1, 2007. “It is an honor to follow the long heritage of leadership associated with this unit,” commented Vedder after accepting command of the 38th MSB. He added that he is eager to maintain the momentum and improve progress in support of the United States of America. In civilian life, Vedder is employed by Purdue University as a Training and Organization Effectiveness Specialist in the Human Resources Department. He has been employed at the university for almost 20 years and also been a member of the Indiana Army National Guard for 19 years. “I am deeply honored to have had the opportunity to serve with you,” said Colbert, the departing commander, in his farewell speech addressing the battalion. “This is not your fathers’ National Guard. This is yours to make of it what you want,” he added. Colbert is being assigned to command the 38th Sustainment Brigade in Kokomo, Indiana.