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06 26 2014

New Commander joins CSU Norfolk

Colonel Anthony Audrey assumed command of the NCI Agency CSU Norfolk on Wednesday 18 June, during a mid-morning ceremony at the steps of the NATO Allied Command Transformation headquarters. During a brief address COL Audrey stated, "This team, our team, and I don't say the word 'our' loosely, has a duty to strengthen and reinforce the NCI Agency and NATO ACT."

The Director of Service Operations, Italian BGEN Luigi Tomaiuolo, spoke to members of the CSU Norfolk after officiating the change of command ceremony. In his speech he praised the members of the CSU for their performance, achievements and professionalism. He also expressed his appreciation to the families of the CSU members for their support.

BGEN Tomaiuolo formally welcomed COL Audrey to the CSU Norfolk Team: "You are a highly motivated professional who has served his country, in the homeland and abroad, with great distinction." COL Audrey is taking command at a crucial time according to BGEN Tomaiuolo: "The processes to become a fully- customer funded organization will be concluded and under your leadership. The Agency footprint will move to better accommodate the CIS support to key NATO Command Units."

After relinquishing her three-year command of CSU Norfolk, COL Lavon Purnell retired from 32 years of service in the U.S. Army. BGEN Tomaiuolo said: "I would like to express my sincere appreciation, also on behalf of the Agency, for the leadership, the strong commitment, the can-do attitude shown and the hard work done during your time here".

COL Audrey reported to the CSU Norfolk after graduating from the U.S. Army War College, at Carlisle Barracks, Pa. His past assignments include the 2nd Infantry Division, the 101st Airborne Division, the Defense Information Systems Agency Pacific and U.S. Central Command. COL Audrey holds a Master of Science in Information Systems Management.

"Let us go forward and execute with diligence, integrity, and excellence," COL Audrey said. He went on to close his speech in traditional military fashion, "I am now reporting for duty. All procedures remain in effect. CONNECTING FORCES!"