Delaware National Guard - DNG News 2001

Delaware National Guard
Passwaters takes command of 198th
By Maj. Jane Zak, Public Affairs Officer, 261st Signal Brigade

Lt. Col. David Passwaters accepts the unit flag – symbolizing his assumption of command.
Lt. Col. David Passwaters assumed command of the 198th Signal Battalion during a formal ceremony at the 198th Readiness Center on Sunday, May 19th. Passwaters, who was assigned as the Mobilization and Readiness Officer for the State Area Command (STARC) assumed command from Lt. Col. Chris Haser, who will transition to STARC as the Mobilization Officer. Prior to the Change of Command ceremony, Haser was presented the Meritorious Service Medal for exceptional achievements and service while assigned as commander. He was recognized for his emphasis on personnel, logistics, training, and signal communications, which resulted in a high level of readiness throughout the duration of his command.

Sgt. 1st Class (Ret) Pappy Eastburn presents the Regimental Aiguillette to Lt. Col. David Passwaters. The aiguillette symbolizes that the commander of the 198th Signal Battalion is the honorary commander of the First Delaware Regiment based on the lineage of over 300 years of Delaware military history. The blue and gold cord that the commander is entitled to wear, once presented, shows his membership in the Regiment .

Lt. Col. Chris Haser accepts the unit flag one last time from Command Sgt. Maj. Dennis Lindgren .

Sgt. 1st Class Pauline Wyatt visits with honored guest Lt. Gen. (Ret) Arthur V. Episcopo, Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army and former Adjutant General of the Delaware National Guard .