MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJUENE, N.C. -- Third Battalion 9th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, bid farewell to their former commanding officer, Lt. Col. David Hudspeth and welcomed their new commanding officer, Lt. Col. Carl Cooper during a change of command ceremony held on W.P.T. Field aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 21.
Hudspeth took command of 3/9 on April 23, 2010 and led the battalion through a deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom 11.1.
“Everyday I’ve led these guys out here I’ve felt very fortunate and privileged,” said Hudspeth, referring to the Marines of 3/9. “I don’t have the vocabulary deep enough or enduring enough to tell them how proud I am of them. Go out there and do what you do best, go out there and win.”
The ceremony began with an invocation by the battalion chaplain, followed by the sounding of attention and the adjutant's call by the 2nd Marine Division band. A color detail from the battalion marched the colors across the field and the national anthem was played.
During a traditional change of command ceremony a report is recited in which the adjutant reports to the commanding officers that all are present for the ceremony. The passing of colors occurs next where the battalion sergeant major retrieves the Marine Corps colors and gives it to the outgoing commanding officer who then gives it to the incoming commanding officer.
“Thank you for the opportunity to lead this battalion. It is an honor that I accept with humility and a responsibility that I do not take lightly,” said Cooper during his remarks to those present for the ceremony. “Most importantly, to the Marines and sailors of this battalion, thank you for your service. I’m truly honored to join your ranks today and I look forward to standing with you as we move forward. Semper Fidelis.”
Once Cooper finished addressing those in attendance there was a traditional pass and review where Marines from the battalion, in company formations led by their company commanders, marched by the outgoing and incoming commanding officers.
The ceremony concluded with the band playing Anchors Aweigh and the Marines’ Hymn.