Cmdr. Robert Arias relieved Cmdr. Jeffery Martin as commanding officer Naval Technical Training Center (NTTC) Lackland during a change of command ceremony at Joint Base San Antonio April 4.

More than 250 people gathered to witness the time-honored ceremony that seamlessly transitions the weight of command. The Center for Security Forces Executive Director, Larry McFarland, served as guest speaker.

"Every command needs a leader to harness and focus the collective talents, energy, and passions of the team to achieve mission accomplishment excellence," said McFarland. "A leader to set and enforce the standards necessary for good order and morale; a leader with the discernment to tackle the hard issues with diplomacy and tact, and preserve the needs of the service and the welfare of the individual service member. Cmdr. Jeff Martin has been that leader and the extraordinary recent accomplishments and current command excellence were achieved on his watch."

Martin thanked his family, friends, mentors, and staff for their support during his time as commanding officer. As his last act, Martin recognized his "Chief," Retired Command Master Chief Willy DeSantiago, by presenting him with his command pennant for deckplate leadership since 1992.

During his tour, Martin led his team of 140 people in the graduation of 8,870 students across six courses taught by the command. These courses support Sailorization and best prepare students to perform their duties in the Fleet worldwide.

Upon assuming command, Arias recognized the hard work and support of his family, the Chiefs Mess and staff members. He spoke about his assignment as the Regional Security Officer for Commander, Navy Region Southwest where he recognized the sacrifice of Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Michael Brodsky who died due to injuries sustained from an improvised explosive device.

"Today I am thinking of you Warrior; you are gone but not forgotten," said Arias in reference to Brodsky. "You simply make me a better leader and person every day of my life. Thanks for your sacrifice, Mike!"

Arias's wife held the honor of pinning the command ashore pin on her husband's uniform with his daughter, mother, and sister in observance.

"As the commander of this great unit, I will foster a collaborative, transparent, and inclusive process that enables military decision-making consistently within my legal and ethical lines of authority and accountability," said Arias. "Today, I am fortunate to follow numerous great leaders whose initiatives, goals, efforts, and passion have helped to create this great team."

Arias, a native of Moriary, New Mexico, enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1988. He served in the enlisted ranks for 12 years and in 2000, he earned his commission through the Limited Duty Officer program. He is the first commanding officer at NTTC Lackland to have held the title of chief petty officer, limited duty officer, and security officer; making this day a historical marker in the history of the command.

Naval Technical Training Center Lackland provides six courses of instruction: Naval Security Forces "A" school, Corrections Specialist, Corrections Counselor, Military Working Dog (MWD) Handler, MWD Kennel Master, and Lifeskills. The command trains more than 2,600 students each year to prepare the best for the worst in defending freedom around the world.

For more information about Naval Technical Training Center Lackland, visit us at
http://www.netc.navy.mil/centers/csf/nttc-lackland/

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