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Northwest Marine Security Force Holds Change of Command

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS070702-07
Release Date: 7/2/2007 3:10:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (AW) Maebel Tinoko, Fleet Public Affairs Det. Northwest

SILVERDALE, Wash. (NNS) -- Maj. James Adams relieved Lt. Col. James Dillon as the commanding officer of Marine Corps Security Force Company (MCSFCo) Bangor in a change of command ceremony at Naval Base Kitsap on June 28.

During the change of command, the Navy Region Northwest Band performed a marching procession along with the Marines and Sailors of MCSFCo giving an evening parade as part of the celebration.

“I want to thank the community here in Kitsap and all they do for our Sailors and Marines,” said Dillon. “Thank you to my Marines, Sailors and civilians of the best security force in the world for allowing me the privilege and honor to serve along side you all. They have always made me proud and they continue to make this country proud.”

The evening parade has been a tradition of the Marines since 1977. The parade calls to mind the pride and dedication of the young Americans who fill in the ranks today. Dillon said he is looking forward to the challenges and opportunities of his new command.

“We have truly gone through a complete transformation and have become an integral member of the Strategic Weapons Facility Pacific team,” said Dillon. “I attribute our great success directly to the wonderful Marines and Sailors of this company. I am immensely proud of them and I marvel at how successful they make us.”

Since Dillon took over the command in July 2005, the command has seen plent of changes. The command has established a 4th platoon and a 4th division, a harbor security boat division, a military dog working section and assumed security for the entire Bangor waterfront.

“For the past two years, this command has undergone more change than any unit could expect,” said Dillon. “We have truly [gone] through a complete transformation, so much that I don’t believe this is same command I started with. It has been an honor to serve with them.”

Dillon was presented the Meritorious Service Medal after being relieved of his duties. The meritorious service medal is a military award presented to members of the U.S. Armed Forces who distinguished themselves by outstanding non-combat meritorious achievement or service to the United States subsequent to Jan. 16, 1969.

Before the ceremony concluded a special flag reenactment of the Iwo Jima flag rising was displayed before the guests to pay a tribute to those who have served and died for the country.

“I was honored to not only attend the event, but to be involved as well,” said Master-at-Arms 3rd Class Jon Arnold of MCSFCo headquarters division. “Col. Dillon was a part of history, when our Sailor and Marines merged to increase the security force. He was able to guide us through the transition and helped make MCSFCo what it is today.”