In a formal ceremony held at Kizuna Hall in Camp Zama, U.S. Army Garrison Japan welcomed its new Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment (HHD) commander, Capt. Tyler Turner, as he assumed command and the role of the USAG Japan executive officer. The change-of-command ceremony marked the transition from outgoing commander Capt. Ashley LeBaube.
During the ceremony, USAG Japan commander Col. Marcus Hunter commended Capt. LeBaube for her nearly two years of dedicated service, describing her as a compassionate and caring leader committed to the Army, the team, and the community. He acknowledged LeBaube’s strength, stamina, perseverance, and skill in handling various tasks and noted her quiet yet powerful example that inspired the entire team.
Col. Hunter expressed gratitude to LeBaube’s son, who attended the ceremony, and extended a warm welcome to Capt. Tyler Turner and his family. He emphasized the Army’s appreciation for leaders like Turner who willingly take on challenging roles to serve and contribute to the community.
In her final remarks, outgoing commander Capt. Ashley LeBaube thanked Garrison leaders for the unique opportunity to command the detachment, emphasizing the distinctive nature of the assignment due to the location, demographics, and mission. She expressed her gratitude to the Soldiers, civilians, and local-national employees constituting the Garrison team, acknowledging their uniqueness and the accomplishments achieved together.
LeBaube concluded, stating, “You all are one-of-a-kind, you are amazing, you are appreciated, and without you, we wouldn’t have the team and accomplishments we do today. I am a better person because of all of you.”
Incoming commander Capt. Tyler Turner closed the ceremony by pledging to prioritize the Garrison’s mission. “I will place the mission and Soldiers before me and strive to improve this wonderful community and its programs,” he affirmed.
The change in leadership signifies a new chapter for the Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment of US Army Garrison Japan, with Capt. Turner poised to lead the team in fulfilling its mission and contributing to the well-being of the community.