Wednesday, Jul. 06, 2011

6th Ranger Training Battalion changes command

Lt. Col. Michael Dane Acord took command of the 6th Ranger Training Battalion, replacing Lt. Col. Matt Seifert in a change of command ceremony June 23 at Camp James E. Rudder, Eglin AFB, Fla.

Col. John W. King II, reviewing officer and commander of the Ranger Training Brigade talked about 6th Ranger Training Battalion’s unique role in training Rangers.

“There is no doubt in anyone’s mind that the Florida phase of Ranger School is the most dangerous phase,” King said. “With its boat movements, rope bridges, swamp movements, air assault and airborne operations, this phase unfortunately has reminded us in the past that you cannot drop your guard for a moment or allow yourself to become complacent.”

King thanked Seifert for his leadership.

“All of this could not occur if they did not have the right commander setting the right command climate, the right focus and also being a jack of all trades,” he said.” Lieutenant colonel Seifert has had to be part battalion commander, part garrison commander and part diplomat. Matt, you have done all of these positions and a lot more. You have done it professionally, safely and you have exceeded the standard.”

Seifert spoke of his experience at Camp Rudder.

“It is hard to believe that two years have flown by and my family has already moved from our Florida vacation home here in Rudderville,” he said. “God has been good to us throughout our time in the military and it is only fitting that I begin by thanking my wife Jill and my children, Kendall and Gavin for allowing me to come and play Ranger one last time. Our family has grown and will forever be touched by this small camp.”

Acord, who has deployed to Haiti to aid in the earthquake relief effort and to Iraq in support of military operations, most recently served as the deputy commander, 199th Infantry Brigade, Ft Benning, Ga.

“To the officers, NCOs and Soldiers of 6th RTB, I am humbled to be joining your team,” Accord said. “I pledge to give you nothing but my very best, each and every day, one hundred percent and then some.”