Khost PRT Transfers Authority

KHOST PROVINCE, Afghanistan – The Khost Provincial Reconstruction Team commander relinquished command during a transfer of authority ceremony at Forward Operating Base Chapman, March 14.

U.S. Navy Cmdr. John A. Pestovic handed over the Khost PRT guidon, marking the assumption of command for U.S. Navy Cmdr. Willie D. Billingslea.

“Our resolve is unwavering and we remain steadfast in our mission to work with the people of Khost to support your leaders’ efforts in governance and development,” said event guest speaker Jimmy Story, Department of State and senior civilian representative for the provinces. “I stand here confident that Commander Billingslea’s team is up to the task and will continue the excellent work of Commander Pestovic’s team.”

Billingslea leads the joint-interagency team of about 100 personnel, who assist their Afghan partners along the five lines of effort throughout the 12 districts of Khost.

Billingslea said he knows the challenges before him and his team, but they will continue the mission and work hard with their Afghan partners to create a safe and secure Afghanistan.

During the ceremony, Billingslea read “God’s Minute” by Dr. Benjamin Mays; a poem that expresses the importance of making the most of the time one is given.

Billingslea said that the tour would be nine months, which is like “God’s Minute”. It is his team’s duty to use their time wisely. Each second will be an accomplishment, he said, and if they can fill up an entire minute of accomplishments it will be a successful tour.
 
“We need to take advantage of the time that we have,” Billingslea said. “I promise that Team Khost will work hard and continue the legacy that John Pestovic and the Khostriders have left us.”