Amidst overcast skies and a mild summer breeze, the Joint Base Lewis-McChord flag fluttered gently Tuesday morning - as if in reverence of the scene unfolding below.

Col. Thomas H. Brittain relinquished command of JBLM to Col. H. Charles "Chuck" Hodges Jr., at a Joint Base Garrison Change of Command ceremony on Watkins Parade Field on Lewis-Main.

"The most complex job that the Army can give is command of an installation," said Installation Command (IMCOM) Commander Lt. Gen. Michael Ferriter. "It takes a lot of talent, energy and heart to lead an installation. JBLM is a model for the (Department of Defense) to follow, and Tommy has made a difference in the quality of lives of the people at JBLM and the surrounding communities. His determination and heart made it successful, and he developed strong support on the installation and throughout the community."

Brittain led the base for three years, first as garrison commander for Fort Lewis and later for Joint Base Lewis-McChord.

"The last three years have been amazing," Brittain said to the Airmen, Soldiers and DoD civilian personnel lined up on Watkins Field. "I can't express it enough. Thank you. You have demonstrated an unparalleled commitment and led this installation. You are responsible for getting it to where we are now. This has been the most rewarding job of 26 years of wearing this uniform, and it's because of great people like you whom I've had the privilege of serving with. I am deeply indebted to you."

As the JBLM garrison commander, Brittain was instrumental in the rebuilding and upgrading of Carter Lake and Hillside Elementary Schools. He also recently changed the minimum elevation for military aviators - requiring helicopters along the western (north-south) route to fly 500 feet higher after resident complaints. His next assignment will be as chief of staff at JBLM's 7th Infantry Division Headquarters.

"Chuck Hodges has the right skills, leadership and attitude to lead JBLM and continue to make it a great place to live and work," Ferriter said of the incoming commander.

Hodges formerly served as Battalion Operations Officer and executive officer in the 1st Battalion, 23rd Infantry Division Tomahawks and as operations officer of the 3-2 Stryker Brigade Combat Team. He returns to JBLM following graduation from the U.S. Army War College in Carlisle Barracks, Pa.

"I am truly honored and humbled to assume command," Hodges said. "For 10 years, I called the South Sound home. The JBLM community is far more than just those who reside here ... we attend schools, services and participate in local sports ... and I'm looking forward to strengthening these relationships. I will do my job so (units and staff) can focus on preparing Soldiers for service - so you can continue to equip and prepare (Servicemembers) for the requirements of the (military) - whatever that may be."

Among those in attendance at the change of command ceremony were Mr. Mike Gregoire, Col. Rick Moore, vice commander of the 62nd Airlift Wing at McChord Field, representatives of the Nisqually Indian Tribe, and other dignitaries and military leaders, including mayors from JBLM's surrounding cities.