'The Big Red Seven' Gets new Commander

Cpl. Khoa Pelczar, 1st Marine Logistics Group

Marines with 7th Engineer Support Battalion of the 1st Marine Logistics Group conducted a change of command ceremony on base last month.

Lt. Col. Daniel H. Dubbs, after leading “The Big Red Seven” since November 2010, relinquished command to Lt. Col. John D. Martinko.

“It’s been an honor and a privilege to serve with these Marines,” said Dubbs. “I want to thank God for giving me the wisdom and the stamina to lead this great battalion.”

After his introduction, Dubbs requested all attendees to take a moment to recognize the Marines who have made the ultimate sacrifice during his 20-month tenure with the battalion and to pray for a speedy recovery for those currently injured.

He took a break from his speech to address the Marines in the battalion.

“Marines, you’ve done an outstanding job,” said Dubbs. “Day in and day out, no matter what you’ve been assigned, you do it well. Words just aren’t enough to express how proud I am and how appreciative I am for the effort you put forth over the last 20 months in operations around the world.”

Dubbs said he wasn’t ready to leave the battalion, but knows 7th ESB will continue to thrive under Martinko’s leadership.

In 1994, Martinko was assigned to 7th ESB; it was his first duty station. Martinko said he was excited to return as their commanding officer.

Martinko, taking on the role and all the responsibilities of 7th ESB, hopes to do great things with the battalion. He addressed his Marines during the ceremony.

“Marines, thank you for continuing to show your excellence in everything you do. I look forward to working with each and every one of you, getting to know each of you as we continue to take our battalion and lead from the front,” Martinko said.

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