Mr. Davis Tindoll, Jr. presents the garrison colors to LTC Matthew S. Bauer, bestowing the mantle of command of US Army Garrison, Fort Walker Virginia. 12 July 2024.
Fort Walker welcomes new commander, Lt. Col. Bauer, bids adieu to Lt. Col. Duffy
Fort Walker Va. – Guests filled the Fort Walker Post Fitness Center gymnasium as Lt. Col. Jason P. Duffy relinquished command of the Fort Walker garrison to Lt. Col. Matthew S. Bauer, during a change of command ceremony July 12.
Bauer’s role as Fort Walker garrison commander will be to oversee the day-to-day operations of Fort Walker’s primary mission, which is to support the training of today’s U.S. warfighters. His work will help the installation maintain its famous motto of “The Best Training and Support – Anywhere!”
The ceremony hosted by Davis D. Tindoll, Jr. Director, U.S. Army Installation Management Command – Sustainment Directorate, was attended by community leaders, nearby garrison command groups, Native American Tribal leaders, the garrison workforce, and family and friends of both Duffy and Bauer.
Maj. Gen. Trevor J. Bredenkamp, Commander Joint-Task-Force National Capitol Region / Military District of Washington, and Senior Commander of Fort Walker approached the speaker’s podium and gave remarks about Duffy’s success.
“Under your leadership, the small but mighty Fort Walker team has made an outsized impact on the Garrison, the surrounding communities, and our Army,” Bredenkamp said.
Fort Walker makes a stunning impact on the local economy, adding millions of dollars annually and more than 1,300 jobs either directly, or indirectly. Additionally, Duffy’s tenure saw the signing of four Intergovernmental Support Agreements with surrounding community governments.
Tindoll began his remarks by firmly stating, “The Army does not train its officers to be garrison commanders, but it does develop leaders. – leaders who are capable, innovative and motivated -- to handle the complex challenges of this type of command. That's how I'd describe Lieutenant Colonel Jason Duffy.”
Tindoll also had encouraging remarks for Bauer, noting his background, previous successes and professionalism.
“Matt, I am certain that you will build on the successes of your predecessors,” Tindoll said. “The challenges are many, but I am confident you will bring great energy and excellence to this installation.”
Addressing the audience in attendance, Duffy spoke of how much Fort Walker is a family- committed to fulfilling the mission of supporting the training of America’s warfighters, and lauded the workforce for their commitment to excellence, reliability and dependability.
“Any glimmer of success I might have had in command … is because of my Deputy Mr. (Alfred) Scott, my command sergeant major, Command Sgt. Maj. Mike Bailey, and the absolute professionals that work here day in and day out, some going on over 40 years,” Duffy said.
The outgoing commander closed with words from Fort Walker’s unofficial motto which he coined, “People – Not Equipment Make the Difference… that motto could not be more true anywhere else in the Army than it is right here at Fort Walker,” before leaving the podium to a standing ovation.
The incoming commander, Bauer was the last to speak and he was brief. He warmly thanked the staff who had welcomed him during his orientation period.
“To the US Army Garrison Fort Walker team, — your reputation proceeds you. Based on the last two weeks I’ve spent getting to know you and your hard work, I am in awe of your professionalism and enthusiasm for this installation and the community,” Bauer said.
He also thanked his wife for the support and patience over the years during his multiple permanent changes of station (nine). He further thanked his parents in attendance and his Father and Mother-in-law who made the trip to Fort Walker from Los Angeles.
Established in 1941, Fort Walker is the Joint Force's premier all-purpose, year-round, training destination. Encompassing nearly 76,000 acres of diverse terrain, including a 27,000-acre live fire complex, Fort Walker is uniquely postured to meet training and range qualification requirements for full spectrum operations. Our professional staff prides itself on delivering quality service and stands ready to assist in your mission planning and execution. Fort Walker provides the best training and support...anywhere!
Chris Hall
PAO Fort Walker