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525th MP Battalion Holds Change of Command Ceremony

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS080814-02
Release Date: 8/14/2008 8:50:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Nat Moger, Joint Task Force Guantanamo Public Affairs

GUANTANAMO BAY, Cuba (NNS) -- The 525th Military Police Battalion held a change of command ceremony just outside Joint Task Force Guantanamo's Camp America Aug. 5.

Army Lt. Col. William Wozniak handed command to Army Lt. Col. Alex Conyers.

The 525th, originally constituted during World War II, was reactivated in October 2004 to conduct detention operations as part of the Joint Detention Group for the JTF. The 525th, along with the Navy Expeditionary Guard Battalion, have the responsibility of walking the blocks and ensuring the safe and humane care and custody of detained enemy combatants.

Army Maj. Gen. Keith Huber, commander, U.S. Army South, presided over the ceremony, and praised Wozniak for his two-year tour of duty.

"People's perspectives become their reality. Here you exist in the most visible location in the world," said Huber. "Woz, if you're wondering if you made an impact, stop. You don't need to. Job well done."

Navy Rear Adm. David M. Thomas, Jr., JTF commander, also spoke at the ceremony.

"Lt. Col. Wozniak, farewell shipmate. It's been a true honor and privilege to serve with you. Lt. Col. Conyers, welcome aboard. You'll find it a rewarding experience."

Wozniak began his remarks by thanking his Soldiers.

"To the Soldiers of the battalion, you guys look great," said Wozniak, before recapping his time as commander, listing the four principles of his leadership style: preservation of readiness, discipline, responsibility and accountability, living the Army values and enforcing set standards.

Conyers noted his last tour of duty at Guantanamo in 1991.

"It's been said that it's tough to get on and off this island," said Conyers. "It's been 17 years, and it's great to be back."

Wozniak will assume a staff position in the Office of the Provost Marshal in Washington, D.C.

For more news from Joint Task Force Guantanamo, visit www.navy.mil/local/jtfgtmo/.