Passing the colors, continuing the mission

CHIÈVRES AIR BASE, Belgium - U.S. Army Garrison (USAG) Benelux welcomed Command Sgt. Maj. Jose Velezcosme as the new senior enlisted leader (SEL) during a change of responsibility ceremony, Oct. 6, 2026, at Chièvres Air base, Belgium. The ceremony also marked the conclusion of Command Sgt. Maj. Coley's 30-year Army career and two-year tenure with USAG Benelux.

Col. Peter Young, USAG Benelux garrison commander, presided over the event which symbolized the transfer of responsibility between the outgoing and incoming command SELs through the passing of the garrison colors.

"Today we witness the time-honored tradition in our military which is the change of responsibility," said Young. "As we watch the colors being passed around, it's important to remember that although the personnel in this circle will change over time, the lineage and legacy of our garrison represented by these colors shown here, will endure."

Young also recognized Coley's commitment to the approximately 20,000 service members, civilians, retirees and Families supported by USAG Benelux.

Reflecting on his time with the garrison, Coley highlighted the unique challenges of serving a geographically dispersed community and the importance of building relationships with people who support the mission.

"This isn't your typical garrison, we operate across different countries, communities, cultures and our incredible network of mission partners," said Coley. "You can't do this job behind a desk; you have to get out, you have to listen, you have to be present, and you have to trust your team."

Turning toward the future, Young expressed confidence in Velezcosme's ability to lead the garrison, citing his experience navigating resource-constrained environments and developing creative solutions to complex challenges.

In his first remarks as the garrison's command sergeant major, Velezcosme placed the focus on the Soldiers and civilian employees who sustained the Benelux mission.

"Today isn't about me, it's about the organization," said Velezcosme. "To the Soldiers and civilians - you are the backbone of our organization. Your level of commitment is impressive and I'm truly looking forward to working with you."

The change of responsibility marks a new chapter for USAG Benelux as the garrison continues its mission of providing installation services, infrastructure and community support to U.S. Army personnel, Families and mission partners across the Benelux region.