Col. James B. Stopa relinquished command of the 2nd Marine Headquarters Group to Col. Thomas J. Gordon during a change of command ceremony at Building H1 aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C., June 26.

 Stopa served as the commanding officer of the unit for two years, including the unit’s deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom last year. Stopa is slated to assume the duties of the Assistant Chief of Staff for II MEF Operations (G-3).

 During the ceremony, Stopa thanked everyone in attendance and praised the Marines of II MHG.

“The last two years have been a great ride, and it was great because the power of any organization is its people,” said Stopa. “The Marines made it happen. Their mission focus, their attention to detail, and their can-do spirit are virtually unmatched.”

Gordon, the new commanding officer of II MHG, was assigned as the Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations (G-3) prior to assuming the command of II MHG.

 During his remarks, Gordon said he looks forward to working with the Marines and continuing the unit’s success.

“I look forward to the challenge. This is a great organization, and I know what I’m getting involved in,” said Gordon. “For the Marines of 2nd MHG, we are going to sustain what we can, and we will improve where we must.”