affirmed a military tradition which dates to the 18th Century in Change of Command ceremonies
at HHS recently.
Senior Aerospace Science Instructor Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) Mark Hart presided as Cadet
Major Joshua Johnson relinquished command of the unit to Cadet 2ndLieutenant Margauxsoul
MacLaughlin.
The traditional Change of Command dates to Frederick the Great of Prussia and signifies the
formal passage of authority within a military unit by the relinquishment and assumption of unit
colors, Lt. Col. Hart explained.
“When a change of command was to take place, the flag was passed to the individual assuming
command,” he said. “This gesture was accomplished in front of the entire unit so all could see
and witness their new leader assuming their dutiful position.”
With the statement, “Sir, I relinquish command,” CMajor Johnson surrendered the group
standard to Lt. Col. Hart upon publication of the order for change of command.
Hart presented the standard to C2nd Lt. MacLaughlin, who assumed formal responsibility,
authority and accountability for the group with the statement, “Sir, I assume command.”
Hart commended Johnson’s leadership of the unit.
“From the moment I met you, you have carried yourself in a manner which exhibits exceptional
character and continual self-improvement,” he said. “Your growth has been amazing.”
Hart observed the famous declaration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. regarding measuring one by
character as his summation of Johnson’s leadership.
“Josh, I can think of no finer example of Dr. King’s man of character than you,” Hart said.
MacLaughlin represents what is best about dedication, he said.
“Masie, you have dedicated yourself to JROTC,” Hart said. “Every time the door is open, you
are there. You have grown as well. You have been involved in a variety of activities which have
improved your leadership skills.”
The ceremony was first adopted in the United States by the Continental Army of the United
States, and has evolved to its present form from those roots. The ceremony allows cadets to