7th CSC welcomes new commanding general

by Staff Sgt. Tramel S. Garrett
21st TSC Public Affairs


The 7th Civil Support Command held a change of command ceremony on the Panzer Parade Field at Panzer Kaserne here, July 9, welcoming Brig. Gen. Mark Hendrix and wishing a fond farewell to the outgoing commander Brig. Gen. Jimmie J. Wells.

Maj. Gen. Patricia E. McQuistion, the commanding general of the 21st Theater Sustainment Command hosted the ceremony, which began with a cannon salute and a troop inspection.

McQuistion acknowledged the accomplishments of the command under the leadership of Wells and the great future before them as they welcome the new commander.

“The 7th CSC has became a dynamic and cohesive unit that can simultaneously provide support for foreign consequence management, civil affairs while also providing a trained and ready force to support overseas contingency operations,” said McQuistion.

The unit was faced with many challenges throughout the transformation process and Wells said he had some concerns. “Professionally the largest part of my concern was to transition this unit from the 7th Army Reserve Command, a legacy unit that had positive history here in Europe, into the 7th CSC,” said Wells.
Wells established the command and created four brigades out of 19 subordinate units that all report to the 7th CSC. Now the command is focused on civil affairs.
Wells, who was recently nominated to the rank of major general, will return to his home state of Texas where he will command the 75th Battle Command Training Division in Houston.

Hendrix, expressed his appreciation to Wells for helping him make a smooth transition. He also addressed the Soldiers of the 7th CSC with his plans as their new commander.

“I had the good fortune to work for commanders who knew one of their biggest jobs was to find and develop the next generation of leaders,” said Hendrix. “I know I can never repay them for what they did for me, but I know they don’t want me to,” “They would want me to pay it forward, to do what they did and I promise to be that kind of commander for you,” he added.