Historic Anderson host Changing of the Guard

ANDERSON- Historic Anderson was the host of one of the most prestigious ceremonies in the military that dates to the 18th century, the Changing of the Guard, Saturday, May 4.

Squadron of the 112th Calvary Regiment LTC Duane Hale retired from his post and handed over the reigns to MA-J(P) David Moulton.

Ceremonies began with a parade march down Main Street with the mounted cavalry leading the way to the steps of the historic Grimes County Courthouse.

Presentation of the roses

Following introductions, the presentation of the roses commenced. Hale’s wife Jennifer was presented with a dozen red roses in recognition of her devotion, efforts and tireless dedication for the troops and families of the 1st Squadron Cavalry of the 112th Regiment. As customary, roses are in full bloom representing beautiful development and bond over sunny days and rainy days, during happy times and challenging times.

Incoming Commander David Moulton’s wife Jennifer was presented with a bouquet of unbudded yellow roses. Yellow is a sign of welcome and the budding roses are in anticipation of things to come. Mrs. Moulton then presented the horse tender with a basket of carrots as a token of appreciation to the horse cavalry.

Changing of the Guard

After troops were inspected and the national anthem played, the passing of the colors commenced. Soldiers carried staphs with unique symbols or color arrangements to lead troops into battle that identified them as a unit and showed their history.

Each troop’s colors showed a symbol of authority and a commander’s responsibility to an organization. Where the commander is so are the colors. When a change of command happens, a ceremony is performed in front of the troops to show the change of command. The squadron Command Sergeant Major Bradley Sutton hands the colors to the outgoing colonel LTC Duane Hale. Hale passes the colors to the brigade commander Rodrigo Gonzalez and Gonzalez passes the colors to the incoming commander Major David Moulton demonstrating the faith in him to take over the chain of command. Moulton then returns the colors to Major Sutton who is the keeper of the colors.

“As we looked for a place to host our change of command, I felt it was important to get back into our community,” said Hale. “The Army is a community-based organization. We come from the community and I wanted to be in the community, and there’s nowhere better than Grimes County. We are in the Birthplace of the Republic.”

“The greatest honor of my career was when I was notified, I’d be taking charge of a battalion,” explained Hale.

Hale spoke on the rich history of the battalion, such as being the only cavalry to serve in WWII. He also spoke about the relief efforts the troops provided during major disasters such as Hurricane Harvey. Hale stated he was proud of being part of a cavalry with such rich tradition and is excited for the future under Moulton.

Hale was joined by his wife, three daughters, dad and mom Karen Hale, Mayor of Plantersville.