BELTON, Texas – Following Command Sgt. Maj. Todd M. Garner’s assumption of responsibility as the 13th Expeditionary Sustainment Command’s command sergeant major on Jan. 31, the 13th Corps Support Command Association hosted a reception in Belton, Texas, on Feb.12, welcoming Garner to the greater III Corps and Fort Hood community and deepening the 13th ESC’s partnership with their neighboring cities.

“I think that this is a great opportunity to have him [Garner] out in the community and let him get a feel for the great people that we have here in central Texas,” remarked Jay Taggart, the 13th COSCOM Community Representative and Chairman.

Born and raised in Amarillo, Texas, this is the first time in his 28 years in the Army that Garner has been stationed in his home state.

“I can’t even begin to tell you how excited I am to be here,” Garner remarked. ”It is a distinct honor and privilege to serve in this outstanding organization, on this historic installation, among this fantastic military community.”

Gen. Darren L. Werner, the commanding general of the 13th ESC, is pleased to have Garner join his command team.

“The 13th ESC’s success relies on its readiness and training right down to the Soldier level, and Command Sgt. Maj. Garner’s distinguished career demonstrates that he remains the ideal leader to prepare it for the challenging missions ahead.”

“This is my 11th Change of Responsibility Ceremony,” Garner stated during the ceremony, “but this one is very special to me, as it is the first Ceremony of my career that my father has been able to attend.”

Werner also used the ceremony as an opportunity to honor Garner’s father, David Garner from Euless, Texas, by presenting him with the Vietnam Veterans Commemorative Pin for his service as an infantryman in Vietnam with the 1st Infantry Division and the 25th Infantry.

Garner’s wife, Nina, and their children Brinkley and Zane currently remain at Ramstein Airbase, Germany, until Zane graduates from high school in June, before joining Garner at Fort Hood this summer.