Task Force Bastogne uncase colors in eastern Afghanistan

NANGAHAR PROVINCE, Afghanistan –The 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, from Fort Campbell, Ky., held a transfer of authority ceremony at Forward Operating Base Fenty in Jalalabad in eastern Afghanistan’s Nangarhar Province June 1.

The commander of Task Force Bastogne, U.S. Army Col. Andrew Poppas, relieved Col. Randy A. George, commander of 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Task Force Mountain Warrior, from Fort Carson, Colo., of the Nangarhar, Nuristan, Kunar and Laghman Provinces in eastern Afghanistan.

“Today begins Task Force Bastogne’s partnership with the Afghan National Security Forces, the government, and the citizens of Nuristan, Nangarhar, Kunar and Laghman,” said Poppas.

Task Force Bastogne uncased their colors, signifying the beginning of their next rendezvous with destiny and the end of Task Force Mountain Warriors mission.

Provincial governors, local national media, Afghan National Army leaders and the Combined Joint Task Force-82 Commander, Maj. Gen. Curtis M. Scaparrotti, attended the ceremony.

“I promise you the same dedication, devotion and professionalism from Task Force Bastogne as we are committed to support you in your progress toward a safe and prosperous Afghanistan,” said Poppas. “Thank you for giving me the opportunity to stand by your side. Colonel George, thank you for giving me the opportunity to command everything in your area. Bastogne, air assault, all the way.”