CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan -- After a successful deployment providing logistical support to combat operations, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Forward) relinquished their responsibilities in Regional Command Southwest to 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward) in a transfer of authority ceremony here, Feb. 15.
2nd MLG (Fwd) conducted one last symbolic action in theater as they cased their colors, fresh with a new Afghan Campaign streamer. Conversely, 1st MLG (Fwd) unfurled their colors into the stiff Afghan wind representing their assumption of the logistical support responsibilities in Helmand province.
Maj. Gen. John A. Toolan, commanding general of RC(SW), was present at the ceremony to extend his thanks and appreciation to the Marines and sailors of 2nd MLG after a job well done.
“I have rarely ever seen Marines from MLG, or Marines anywhere, operate with such intensity and such purpose as I have seen with all the Marines at MLG,” said Toolan. “As a result, Helmand province has transformed before our eyes over the past year.”
In his remarks, Brig. Gen. Michael G. Dana, commanding general, 2nd MLG (Fwd) took the time to thank the other commands in RC(SW) that work together to accomplish the mission as one team. Most importantly, he praised the hard work and constant dedication of the Marines under his command.
“[The Marines] do a lot of everything. They distribute money, they run the exchange, they move mail, they run the convoys, and they look for bombs and disarm them. They do everything across the logistics spectrum, and [they represent] the best generation we’ve ever had.”
Dana then went on to welcome Brig. Gen. John J. Broadmeadow, commanding general, 1st MLG (Fwd).
“I can’t think of a better team to turn over with. You have a great wealth of combat experience; you’ve got a great staff and a great team. I welcome you to the theater.”
Broadmeadow took the opportunity to recognize the importance of the International Security Assistance Forces coalition as well as the members of the Marine Air Ground Task Force by saying, “We can’t do it alone, this is truly a joint coalition operation ... I look forward to working with you.”
The Pawtucket, R.I. native then highlighted the three priorities that 1st MLG (Fwd) will focus on during its deployment: providing tactical logistical support, growing the capability of the Afghan National Security Forces, and repositioning Marine Corps forces through good stewardship of supplies and equipment.
“We are going to [accomplish the mission] with enthusiasm and aggressiveness, with an eye on safety and effective operations. Most importantly we are going to do it as U.S. Marines and we will keep our honor clean.”