FORT CARSON, Colo. – On March 17, 1980, 3rd Assault Helicopter Battalion, 4th Aviation Regiment, “Comanches”, was first constituted as an element of the 4th Infantry Division at Fort Carson. Since then, the Comanches have deployed multiple times across the world, supported countless missions, and witnessed many ceremonial traditions along the way.

Recently, the Comanches celebrated yet another ceremonial tradition with the change of command from Lt. Col. Michael Hultquist, former commander, 3-4 AHB, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Inf. Div., to Lt. Col. Amoreena York, incoming commander, 3-4 AHB, 4th CAB, 4th Inf. Div., Oct. 19, 2022, at Fort Carson.

“It’s great to share this special significant event with all of you here today,” said Col. Joshua Ruisanchez, commander, 4th CAB, 4th Inf. Div. “This is a special day for the Hultquist and York families. There are many leaders here today who exemplify making the mission happen and not caring who gets the credit, but there’s always one who makes that culture effective, assuring success, and that is Lt. Col. Hultquist.”

Hultquist took command at the height of COVID in 2020. He said the first time meeting the battalion was only 30 Soldiers at a time while in-briefing the Soldiers in the battalion classroom. Hultquist was able to meet all 840 Soldiers in about two weeks.

Hultquist says he’s grateful to finally see them all on the field in front of him with the best backdrop in the army.

“It is truly an honor to relinquish command of the best air assault battalion in the Army,” said Hultquist. “As I reflect on the last two years, it has been an absolute blast to work with each and every one of you. I can say, without any reservation, this battalion is combat ready.”

During Hultquist’s time as the commander, the Comanches fought fires from Fort Carson to Fort Hood, conducted six aerial gunneries, five forward arming and refueling point exercises, numerous downed aircraft recovery team exercises, day and night drivers training, and participated in and executed six field training exercises to name a few.

“This unit standing in front of you is a perfect example of the kind of outfitted Army talks about when talk about ‘Ready now and resilient tomorrow’ to attack and close in on the final yards,” said Ruisanchez.

Now, the mantel passes to York, one of the most accomplished and well-rounded aviators says Ruisanchez. Her depth of experience will play well into building teams of teams that believe in themselves, their teammates and their leaders in order to achieve victory.

“Comanches, I am continuingly impressed by your tenacity, work ethic and pursuit of excellence in the short time that I’ve been here,” said York. “There’s no doubt that the strategic landscape is changing, and we don’t know what comes next. What I do know is we will continue to provide world class aviation support to this division so that we may be prepared for whatever comes next. I am honored to be on your team. Steadfast and loyal, Comanche 6 signing in.”

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