MCTOG welcomes new commander

Twentynine Palms. Calif. -- Col. Craig R. Wonson relinquished command of Marine Corps Tactics and Operations Group to Col. Tim Barrick at the Dunham Amphitheater aboard the Combat Center, July 29, 2016.

Wonson assumed command of MCTOG in 2014. His personal decorations include the Bronze Star with Combat Distinguishing Device, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal with three gold stars, the Joint Commendation Medal, the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, and the Combat Action Ribbon.

The invocation, delivered by Lt. Cmdr. Paul Armstrong, Combat Center Chaplain, initiated the ceremony, followed by the march on the colors and the playing of the national anthem. Finally, Wonson handed the unit’s colors to Barrick; a symbolic tradition representing the passing of authority and responsibilities as commander.

“If I could pick my replacement here at MCTOG it would be Col. Tim Barrick,” Wonson said. “For those who don’t know, he is a former operations officer at MCTOG so he knows how things work.” I don’t think there is a person better postured or skilled to be able to take this organization further in the future.”

Prior to his assignment to MCTOG, Barrick served with Marine Corps Forces Europe and Africa in various staff billets since 2014.
“To the Marines and civilian Marines of MCTOG, you’re true professionals and I’m excited to see what we’ll accomplish together in the future,” Barrick said.