LTC Steve Bolton, United States Army, Assumption of Command, Hunter Army Airfield Garrison, Savannah

On the morning of August 17, 2020, LTC Steve Bolton assumed command of the U.S. Army Garrison at Hunter Army Airfield.  Due to the prevailing virus, with safety protocols in place, the ceremony was held out in the open in front of Garrison Headquarters, with a strictly limited number of people in attendance, all wearing a mask, as required.  The vast majority of those “attending” did so virtually. The Reviewing Officer for the assumption of command was Colonel Brian Logan, Garrison Commander, Fort Stewart/HAAF.

Following the National Anthem and the Chaplains prayer, the Passing of the Colors took place in front of the Garrison flag pole, with Garrison CSM Robbins passing the Garrison flag to Colonel Logan, who then passed it to LTC Bolton, who then returned it to CSM Robbins.

Colonel Logan spoke briefly, reminding everyone that Hunter Army Airfield is the Army’s “premier power projection platform,” from which key rapid response unit(s) can be deployed anywhere in the world within 18-hours. He referred to LTC Bolton’s arrival as “the right commander at the right time” for HAAF,  referencing specifically the continuing virus epidemic and hurricane season!

A Green Beret, LTC Bolton arrived at Hunter from his previous assignment as the aide-de-camp to the Special Operations Commander at NATO in Belgium.  He gave thanks for this command opportunity, and also thanked the three special women in his life for their past and continuing support: his wife Brooke, his Mother, and his daughter Olivia.  He concluded his brief remarks by saying: “I’m proud to be your teammate, and I’m excited to serve you.”  We wish Steve Bolton all the very best with his Hunter Command here in Savannah.

LTC Bolton replaces LTC Dave Escobar who found it necessary to be relieved of his Garrison Command here early, due to the illness of his wife, LTC Jackie Escobar, and the need for her specialized treatment in Houston, Texas. The Escobars are a terrific Army couple, and we are thankful to have had them with us.

Meanwhile, the soldiers of the 3CAB of the 3ID are now returning to HAAF from overseas deployment!