Significance Of The Passing Of The Colors

[Return to 66th Avn Bde Change of Command]

     The change of command ceremony is a traditional event that runs deep in symbolism and heritage. Key to the change of command is the passing of the unit’s colors. The unit colors not only represents the heritage and history of the unit, but also stands for the unity and loyalty of its soldiers. The unit colors is the Commander’s symbol of authority and responsibility. The custodian of the unit colors is the Command Sergeants Major. As the senior enlisted soldier, he is the natural spokesman for the loyalty and feelings of the soldiers, and a principal advisor to the Commander on all affairs concerning them. When the unit colors are not displayed for the Commander, it and the unit are in the care of the Command Sergeants Major.