83rd Troop Command welcomes new commander

STARKE, Fla. (July 10, 2011) – Soldiers and honored guests gathered at the Camp Blanding Joint Training Center’s Post Headquarters a change of command ceremony for the Florida National Guard’s 83rd Troop Command, July 9, 2011.

The 83rd Troop Command, based in Tallahassee, Fla., is a diverse group with units all over the state of Florida. Their mission is to provide crucial training, logistics, and administrative support as they make sure units are prepared for federal and state missions.

Maj. Gen. Emmett R. Titshaw (left), the Adjutant General of Florida, Col. Michael Calhoun (middle) and Col. Perry Hagaman observe the formation of Troops during the change of command ceremony for the Florida National Guard's 83rd Troop Command, July 9, 2011. Calhoun assumed command from Hagaman, who currently serves as the Chief of Staff for the Florida National Guard. Photo by 2nd Lt. Gavin Rollins

Outgoing commander, Col. Perry Hagaman, left a permanent mark on the unit by leading them through a very eventful time in their recent history. During recent years, nearly nine out of ten Soldiers from the unit’s formation have deployed in support of ongoing overseas operations. Hagaman currently serves as the Chief of Staff for the Florida National Guard.

Hagaman relinquishes command to Col. Michael Calhoun who brings with him a plethora of experience commanding other units in the Florida National Guard, most recently the 50th Area Support Group.

Maj. Gen. Emmett Titshaw, the Adjutant General of Florida, said Hagaman is an exemplary commander and expressed his gratitude for his leadership through the multitude of projects and missions home and abroad.

Hagaman said that it has been a great ride and gladly thanked the soldiers of the 83rd Troop Command for carrying themselves with such professionalism.
Calhoun looks forward to his responsibilities and thanked Major General Titshaw for the opportunity to assume command of such an important unit.

“Col. Calhoun is an outstanding officer who brings a proven track record of superb leadership in medical and logistic units from platoon to brigade throughout,” said Titshaw, “He is a dedicated professional who thrives on new challenges and responsibilities. His selection will ensure the 83rd Troop Command will continue its exemplary record of achievement.”

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