Soldiers and their families gathered at Fort Drum, New York, last week for a change of command ceremony.
Outgoing commander Maj. Gen. Jeffrey Bannister, who has led the division since March 2015, relinquished command of the 10th Mountain Division to Maj. Gen. Walter Piatt. 
"As we pass the colors today, we are reminded of those who served in 10th Mountain since 1943, when our newly-forged division fought bravely across the mountains of Italy," he said, according to an Army press release. "And since reactivation in 1985, this storied division continues to uphold the distinct legacy for being known as ‘Mountain Tough,’ always training in the harshest conditions, humble, proud, as the most deployed."
During his time in command, Bannister oversaw an 11-month division headquarter deployment to Afghanistan in which he served as the Deputy Commanding General of Support, United States Forces Afghanistan.
"[Bannister] has struck a balance of tough, realistic training with genuine care for Soldiers and Families," said Gen. Robert Abrams, commanding general of U.S. Army Forces Command. "As the senior commander of Fort Drum, Jeff led this installation in supporting the diverse types of warfighting units here, and helped build the total force."
Abrams also welcomed Piatt, who previously served as the division's deputy commander, back to Fort Drum.
"[Piatt] is a battle-tested warfighter with extensive operational experience," Abrams said. "He knows what it takes to ensure our Soldiers and units are ready for whatever mission they are given. Walt has a passion for soldiers and families, and I am confident he will continue to elevate this division to new heights."
