35th ADA BDE welcomes new command sergeant major

  • Published
  • By Pfc. Gretchen N. Goodrich
  • 35th ADA HHB
OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  The 35th Air Defense Artillery Brigade conducted an Assumption of Responsibility Ceremony for the brigade's new command sergeant major at the Challenger Enlisted Club here Oct. 1. 

The ceremony for Command Sgt. Maj. James T. Carr included the transfer of a Non-Commissioned Officer sword between he and Col. James H. Dickinson, 35th ADA BDE commander, which helps to reinforce the NCO authority in the Army and highlights the support the NCOs provide to the chain of command. 

Sergeant Major Carr arrived here after the previous command sergeant major left in July, but he said he's ready to take command over the Soldiers in the brigade. 

"My expectations are simple: I want to see and expect disciplined Soldiers," said Carr. "Soldier care is of the utmost importance at all levels; training is crucial as this is what keeps us alive. Always be mentally and physically tough. Expect and demand high standards at all levels to include me." 

Sergeant Major Carr may be new to the brigade, but he isn't new to serving alongside Colonel Dickinson. Both served together in the 1st Battalion, 7th Air Defense Artillery, leading the battalion while it was located in Fort Bliss, Texas. The battalion rotated here in June and now falls under the 35th ADA BDE. 

"He is certainly no stranger to this brigade," said Colonel Dickinson. 

The command sergeant major's resume led him to being selected for this position. He has served in every enlisted leadership position from a team chief to a battalion command sergeant major. He has attended various schools to include the Air Assault School, Northern Warfare Training Course, First Sergeant's Course and the Sergeant's Major Academy. Carr holds an Associate of Science Degree from Excelsior University and is currently pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Business Management from Park University. 

Carr's awards and decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal with four Oak Leaf Clusters, the Army Commendation Medal with eight Oak Leaf Clusters, the Army Achievement Medal with nine Oak Leaf Clusters, the Good Conduct Medal, the Air Assault Badge, the Drill Sergeant Badge and the Germany Sport Badge.