Soto Cano Air Base, Honduras –
U.S. Army Colonel Steven Barry, an Ohio State University graduate and former West Point instructor in Military History, assumed command of Joint Task Force-Bravo July 24, 2019 during a Change of Command ceremony at Soto Cano Air Base, Honduras.
The ceremony was presided by Admiral Craig Faller, commander of U.S. Southern Command, who was joined by local Honduran government and military officials. Additional attendees included U.S. Army South commander, Major General Daniel Walrath, and Chargé d’Affaires Lawrence Gumbiner from the U.S. Embassy in Honduras. Together, they witnessed the passing of the colors from Col. Tito Villanueva to Col. Barry.
The passing of the colors is a long-standing military tradition that symbolizes the transfer of authority of a unit from one commanding officer to another.
“This ground is special and it’s a symbol of the enduring partnership, the friendship, and trust that we have. Our mission here is vital for the security of this neighborhood - our hemisphere. We’re building stronger partnerships, and those stronger partnerships will counter the threats that all of our nations face,” said Faller during his remarks as he welcomed Col. Barry to the SOUTHCOM team.
“Across Central America, Joint Task Force Bravo has made a difference and will continue to make a difference. Col. Barry, welcome aboard, we look forward to working with you and I know you’re excited to lead this fantastic team,” said the Admiral.
Col. Barry’s previous assignments include C Company commander in support of Operation Desert Spring during the attack into Iraq, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2002. His awards and decorations include the Silver Star, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, NATO Medal, Presidential Unit and Meritorious Unit Citations, Combat Action Badge, Expert Infantryman's Badge, Basic Parachutist Badge and Ranger Tab.
“I am honored to assume command of this task force and look forward to continuing a legacy of partnership,” said Barry. “I am committed to strengthening our partnerships throughout the region.”
Col. Barry has a Doctorate of Philosophy and Masters of Arts in History from Ohio State University and assumes command of the task force following his service as an Army War College Fellow at Georgetown University.