KANDAHAR AIR FIELD, Afghanistan (August 6, 2008) — U.S. Army Col. Ralph W. Haddock assumed command of the U.S. National Command Element (Task Force Anzio) from U.S. Army Col. Arthur P. Crowder during a change-of-command ceremony, here, Aug. 6. 

Task Force Anzio provides operational oversight, as well as logistical and administrative support, to two provincial reconstruction teams, one infantry company from 1-4 Infantry Battalion, as well as the 189th Combat Service and Support Battalion.  Task Force Anzio is also charged with carrying out base operations missions to support all Coalition forces at Kandahar Air Field. 

Crowder commanded TF Anzio for one year. He will subsequently serve as the Central Command J-3 chief of operations, at MacDill Air Force Base, Fla.

Crowder recognized his Afghan counterparts during his farewell speech, as well.

“When I first arrived here, I spoke about making a difference in the lives of the Afghan people,” Crowder said.  “You gentlemen are making a difference.  It has been an honor to be associated with you and your cause, which is to make the lives of the Afghan people better.”

Crowder also told the attendees that he was comfortable in handing over TF Anzio to Haddock. 

Haddock comes to Afghanistan from Fort Sill, Okla., where he served as the deputy director of the Capabilities Development and Integration Directorate.  During his 25 years of service, Haddock commanded the 1st Battalion, 40th Field Artillery, and he previously deployed to Haiti for Operation Uphold Democracy.  He also served in multiple artillery duty positions in the 8th Infantry Division, the 9th Infantry Division, and the 10th Mountain Division. 

Haddock voiced his enthusiasm and support for the Anzio mission and told the multi-national crowd he looked forward to working with them. 

“To my Coalition colleagues, I look forward to our partnership in executing our critical mission in support of the citizens of Afghanistan and our countrymen back home,” he said. 

Haddock also had a message for the Afghan leaders in attendance.

“To our Afghan friends, I am privileged to stand should to shoulder with you men of courage, honor and commitment,” Haddock said.  “I too have great hopes for the future of your country.”