BOISE, Idaho — Boise's Gowen Field had a Change of Command on Friday, highlighting the transfer of authority between outbound commander Col. Eric Orcutt and inbound commander Col. Jason Garcida.
Orcutt has been with the 116th Cavalry Brigade Combat Team (CBCT) since Aug. 2021. CBCT, under Orcutt's command, completed two back-to-back missions to assist with Operation Spartan Shield in the Central Command area and two joint overseas training missions in the Republic of Tunisia and the Kingdom of Morocco. Under his command, CBCT also modernized equipment.
Orcutt will continue to serve as chief of the joint staff of the Idaho National Guard.
As for the incoming commander, Gracida has served in the military since 1992, becoming an officer ten years later. Most recently, he served as director of operations for the Idaho Army National Guard.
"It has been an absolute privilege and honor to command the 116th Cavalry Brigade Combat Team and serve alongside the officers, NCOs, and Soldiers of Idaho, Oregon, Montana and Nevada," Orcutt said. "Their professionalism and expertise are unmatched and stand as an example for all other armor brigade combat teams to follow. I am confident that the long-held traditions of excellence and mission accomplishment for the 116th will continue for many years to come."
At the ceremony, Brig. Gen. Cole Packwood with the Idaho National Guard presided, which included passing of the colors and a few other military traditions.
"It is my distinct honor to be selected for command of the 116th Cavalry Brigade Combat Team," Gracida said. "Our brigade has always been and will remain the standard bearer of the armored brigades within the National Guard, and we will continue to achieve that distinction through each of our assigned missions. My commitment to this brigade and its Soldiers is to ensure we uphold our reputation and build upon the esteem of the 116th in all we do and everywhere we go."
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