By Thomas Grant Jr.

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Daryl Hood left a positive impact on the local community in his two brief years as Commanding General at Fort Jackson.

Last Friday’s relinquishment of command ceremony at Victory Field marked an end to his 41 years of service.

“When you at his career, you’re looking at the absolute gold standard of what an American soldier can achieve,” said Lt. Gen. Johnny Davis, Commanding General of the U.S. Army Recruiting Command, at last Friday’s relinquishment of command ceremony at Victory Field. “To coming into the Army as a private and then, 40 years of service later, commanding an entire installation as a major general. What a major achievement and accomplishment.”

Hood did more than just oversee facility improvements and the preparation of recruits for military life at Fort Jackson. A self-described “people” person, he believed in forging strong relationships outside the training installation gates.

To that end, Hood’s outreach earned him the respect, trust and admiration of business, political and law enforcement officials throughout the Midlands.

“What did I enjoy most about command?” said Hood during last Friday’s relinquishment of command ceremony at Victory Field. “It’s about the people…because without the people, you can’t execute the mission.”

His relationship with the Lexington County Blowfish was a prime example of this “people” approach. Co-owners Bill and Vicki Shanahan have been strong advocates for the military from highlighting veterans during games at Lexington County Baseball Stadium to holding fundraisers to benefit the S.C. USO.

Fort Jackson Appreciation Night has become one of the organization’s most popular events. Each year, members of the 193rd Basic Combat Training Brigade arrive by bus for a day of leisure at the ballpark.

From taking pictures with team mascot Blowie to a rare opportunity to gorge on fast food, the event is a highlight both for Fort Jackson and the Blowfish.

“Fort Jackson Appreciation Night is one of the most meaningful nights of our more than 20 seasons hosting,” Bill Shanahan said. “We’re honored to welcome Basic Training soldiers to the ballpark each season for baseball, hot dogs, and a well-deserved evening of fun.

“We’re grateful for our two-decade partnership with Fort Jackson and our past two years of collaboration with Maj. Gen. Daryl O. Hood. It’s a privilege to host these soldiers and show our appreciation for their service.”

This year saw Hood ‘honored and privileged’ to receive a proclamation from Lexington Mayor Hazel Livingston honoring Fort Jackson.

“We believe that Fort Jackson is a partner with our overall community,” Hood said. “Whether it’s Columbia, Lexington, the Midlands in general, it’s one more example of how we have an all-volunteer force. Some are local. Some from other states and we consider Lexington as part of our overall family in our area.”

The Blowfish look to continue the relationship with Hood’s unnamed successor. Col. Robin Husted, Fort Jackson Deputy Commanding Officer, will serve in that capacity on an interim basis.

 

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