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 A CHAPEL SERVICE was held at territorial headquarters to welcome (l-r) Majors Ron and Pam Strickland, Paul and Carol Seiler, and David and Sharron Hudson. photo by Cathy Tan |
BY ROBERT DOCTER –
The Western Territorial headquarters “family” warmly welcomed new officers in a morning chapel service last week.
Majors Paul and Carol Seiler were recently appointed Territorial Secretary for Personnel and Assistant Chief Secretary for Strategic Planning and Current Issues, respectively; Majors Ron and Pam Strickland will provide leadership in the ARC Command; and Majors David and Sharron Hudson will serve as the Community Relations and Development Secretary and the Overseas Children’s Sponsorship Secretary.
With genuine warmth, historical humor, and friendly advice, Major Joyce Stevenson spoke on behalf of officers and Shoshanna Begonia spoke for all employees and welcomed the three couples to THQ.
Majors Steve and Sheila Bradley, accompanied by pianist Major Eileen Hoogstad, chose musical re-writes of contemporary popular and Army songs creating new lyrics to provide coping advice for life at THQ.
In response Ron Strickland first asked the capacity audience to call 1-800-SATRUCK if they have any disposable items, then expressed great satisfaction in returning to Southern California. He drew on verses from Psalm 57 to illustrate God’s commitment to his people and his willingness to provide in all situations.
Sharron Hudson noted a number of special memories in returning to Long Beach and Southern California and expressed a positive anticipation surrounding opportunities to work with fellow officers and employees serving at the Army’s Long Beach headquarters.
Paul Seiler reminded the audience that he had begun his days at THQ as an employee some several years ago and then spoke on key themes in quality leadership. Leaders, he said, must first, be fair, honest and respectful; second, they must remember they exist to assure the success of the Army’s mission on the frontlines of service; third, they must establish teamwork; fourth, they need to work to make things happen; and finally, they must place their trust in the Lord.
The territorial commander, Commissioner David Edwards, offered his welcome by recognizing that in making appointments — “God gets it right.” He used the three couples as examples of this by stating that they had been found to be people of integrity, people with a “pastor’s heart,” and people who fully understand the meaning of servant leadership.
The service was led by Major Linda Markiewicz. The chief secretary, Colonel Phil Needham, pronounced the benediction.