U.S. Army Garrison Italy welcomes new commander

VICENZA, Italy — Col. Vaughn D. Strong Jr. assumed command of U.S. Army Garrison Italy during a July 9 ceremony at Caserma Ederle.

During a change of command ceremony at Hoekstra Field, Col. Scott W. Horrigan turned over the command to Strong, who recently served at U.S. Army Europe and Africa, in Wiesbaden, Germany. Horrigan has commanded the garrison since Summer 2023.

Tommy R. Mize, director of Installation Management Command-Europe, oversaw the ceremony that included the traditional passing of the unit colors — showing the transfer of authority and responsibility. Music for the ceremony was provided by the Brigata di Cavalleria “Pozzuolo del Friuli” military band.

“Colonel Scott Horrigan has led this complex garrison with distinction and unmatched service,” Mize said. “Garrison Italy is a challenging, complex and fast-paced environment primarily due to the unique and demanding mission of the dozens of commands and organizations they support.”

Dozens of U.S. military leaders and Italian civic officials attended the ceremony. Among them were Maj. Gen. Andrew C. Gainey, commanding general of Southern European Task Force, Africa. Italian dignitaries included the Prefect of Vicenza, Dr. Filippo Romano, and Chief of Vicenza Police, Dr. Francesco Zerilli.

While in command, Horrigan prioritized community engagement, building a strong rapport with Italian leaders and empowering U.S. Army units to conduct local outreach through the Community Alliance Partnership. This led to shared events such as a Soldiers’ soccer match against local mayors and Soldiers assisting during regional flooding. Horrigan led bi-annual Mayors Summits to keep Italian leaders informed on construction updates, operational issues and other shared topics.

“Scott was absolutely committed to strengthening strategic partnerships with our wonderful Italian host nation communities and leaders,” Mize said.

Before the ceremony Horrigan received an award for his service. His next assignment will be at SETAF-AF at Caserma Del Din.

Strong thanked his wife, Eva, for her support and praised his children for their resilience through years of military life.

“My priorities are simple, take care of our community, enable mission success, and foster an environment where our Soldiers, civilians, and families can thrive,” Strong said.

See the official photos of the ceremony here.

Watch the official video at this DVIDS link.