MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. -- After almost two years, the commanding officer of Fleet Readiness Center East has passed on the command colors and command of North Carolina’s largest industrial employer east of Interstate 95.
Col. L. Scott Loch passed on his duties as commanding officer of FRC East to Col. Mitchell A. Bauman during the change of command ceremony at a FRC East hangar May 27.
“This command is made up of a lot of former and retired military members as well as some very patriotic people who have never worn a uniform,” said Loch. “It is those people that have been a dedicated work force and have made this unit a success.”
FRC East provides unsurpassed service to the fleet and relentless focus on quality, environment and occupational health and safety. Loch said he has worked with his employees on several new operations that allowed FRC East to reach higher standards of performance.
“I am very proud of these workers and how hard they have been working on implementing these integrities I have brought to the table over the last two years,” said Loch. “Even though I will be working as the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing’s aviation logistics officer, I will still be FRC East’s number one cheerleader. I am very proud and feel very privileged to have worked with these great people.”
“In 32 years of service, departing from this command and these great and talented people will be one of the hardest things I’ve ever done,” said Loch. “So my advice to Col. Bauman is to take care of your workers and maintain focus on the wildly important; quality, schedule, cost and safety.”
Bauman said he feels these four pieces of the puzzle are just as important as the workers. “Loch has set up this command to win the challenges set before us,” said Bauman. “Success is a choice and I am going to chose to succeed and make sure the workers of FRC East make that choice to.”
The special guest speaker touched on the success of Loch and FRC East with a choice set of words. With his parting words, Loch added a final note to his successor.
“Colonel Bauman your hunger for excellence will serve you and this command well,” said Loch. “I leave with no worries of having the legacy of FRC East given away with you at the reins.”