Georgia ARNG’s 78th Aviation
Troop Command Welcomes New
Commander
The Georgia Army National Guard’s 78th Aviation Troop
welcomed its new commander, Col. Jason Fryman, during
a change of command ceremony at the Clay National Guard
Center in Marietta, Georgia.
that he is one of the premier leaders in this organization,” said
Brig. Gen. Randall Simmons, commander of the Georgia Army
National Guard. “He does all of the little things right, which
usually means that the big things just fall into line.”
Simmons recounted many of the 78th ATC’s accomplishment
and Savannah. During this time, units of the 78th ATC deployed
multiple times in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and
Freedom’s Sentinel in Afghanistan, Operation Spartan Shield in
Iraq, Kuwait and Syria, and mobilized aircraft to Kosovo.
The 78th ATC supported exercises at home and overseas from
rotations at the Combined Readiness Training Center to Noble
Partner in the Country of Georgia, where the 78th ATC currently
has aircraft and personnel participating in training missions on
an international stage, notably supporting air assault operations
involving troops of three nations.
Aviators and crewmembers of the 78th ATC responded to
numerous natural disasters in the past four years, ranging from
Hurricanes Harvey, Matthew and Maria. Aviators provided
Vigilant Guard in 2015 and 2017. During this time, the 78th ATC
was recognized with awards for logistics, personnel and readiness
excellence.
command tenure.
to their support and I thank you for yours, and for the support I
have received from the (Georgia Army National Guard).”
of the 78th ATC.
“Not many folks realize that Army National Guard Aviation
makes up almost half of all Army Aviation. The 78th ATC has
been continually involved in operations around the world for
28 | October 2018 | Real Hero Report
more than a decade and a half.”
“Aviation provides ground force commanders with incredible
units of the 78th ATC have done this multiple times. They are the
perfect example of an operational and a relevant Army National
Guard.”
Assuming command of the 78th ATC is Col. Jason Fryman, a
served in multiple command and staff positions within the 78th
ATC, including command of the Marietta-based 1st Battalion,
171st Aviation Regiment and two overseas combat deployments.
said Fryman. “I am deeply humbled to be counted among its
ranks once again. The character, commitment and competence
of the Soldiers of this command rival that of any aviation unit
local, state or national, to protect our nation’s interests and our
American way of life.”
Colonel Jason Fryman, incoming commander of the Georgia Army
National Guard’s 78th Aviation Troop Command, speaks at the
conclusion of the 78h ATC change of command ceremony. (Photo by
Maj. William Carraway.)