Outgoing Special Troops Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Mark Winker, right, passes the colors to Combined Arms Center Chief of Staff Col. Trent Upton during his change of command ceremony with incoming STB Commander Lt. Col. Benjamin Gong Oct. 28 at the Frontier Conference Center. Photo by Prudence Siebert/Fort Leavenworth Lamp

Lt. Col. Mark Winker relinquished command of Special Troops Battalion to incoming Commander Lt. Col. Benjamin Gong during a change of command ceremony Oct. 28 at the Frontier Conference Center.

CAC Chief of Staff Col. Trent Upton, ceremony host, opened his remarks by explaining the unique challenges presented in STB due to the number of soldiers, missions and capabilities included in the commander’s responsibility.

“Mark has performed a very difficult, as highlighted already, complicated and sometimes thankless job in providing the leadership necessary to ensure the readiness of all members of the battalion and look out for the morale and welfare of both his soldiers and their families,” Upton said. “He’s a dedicated, positive and determined leader. … Given the fact that the bulk of those that are on his personnel roster outrank him, he’s very skilled in both the written and spoken word, applying the appropriate leadership and tact that inherently navigating that type of formation demands.”

Upton said Winker built a culture of teamwork, respect and readiness in the battalion. He praised Winker for his positivity at work and his dedication to the people in his care.

“What a ride,” Winker said as he thanked those who have influenced his career while adding some levity. “I think that everybody here knows that any measure of success that I’ve had while in this position can be attributed to the team that has patiently and faithfully stood by my side, at times done my dirty work and always supported me.”

Winker expressed his gratitude for the battalion. He said it was an honor to serve with the people he worked with, citing their friendship, mentorship and candor.

“I’ve been truly blessed with a great team, and each one of you has played a role in the success of this battalion over the last two years. This is a people business, and it’s a human endeavor, and that’s not lost on me.”

Winker said he grew to love the job as he described his experience through a range of emotions. He thanked his parents and his family for their prayers and support during his command.

“Ben, the team is assembled, and you are ready. I’m honored to pass the colors to you as you assume the tremendous responsibilities and authorities as the 10th Special Troops Battalion commander,” Winker said, welcoming Gong.

Upton thanked Winker for his leadership and service, wishing him luck in his transition to the Command and General Staff College before addressing Gong and his family.

“Ben, I know that you’re going to do a great job, we know this already. We’re excited to have you join the team and continue to build on the legacy that Mark has so formally laid, and wish you the best as you’re coming on board.”

Gong thanked the audience for their attendance and the battalion’s welcome. He said he looked forward to working with Upton and developing future Army leaders. Gong thanked his parents and family for their love and support.

According to the ceremony program, Winker commissioned as a field artillery officer in 2004 after graduating from Norwich University in 2003. As an artilleryman, Winker served in a series of positions in Fort Hood, Texas, and as an assistant professor of military science at Norwich University, Vt. He reclassified as a logistician in 2010, serving in command positions in Fort Bliss, Teaxs; Doha, Qatar; and Fort Leavenworth. His education includes military coursework and a master’s degree in organizational leadership from Norwich University.

Gong commissioned as an infantry officer from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in 2005. As an infantry officer, Gong served at Camp Casey, Korea; Fort Riley, Kan.; and Gardez, Afghanistan. He transitioned to the Military Intelligence Corps as an intelligence officer, serving in Schofield Barracks, Hawaii; Yongsan Garrison, Korea; Fort Shafter, Hawaii; and the National Security Agency/Central Security Service. His education includes military coursework, a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the U.S. Military Academy and a master’s degree in strategic intelligence from National Intelligence University.