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Capt. James L. Cameron assumed command of Delta Company 1st Battalion 109th Combined Arms Battalion during a ceremony at Fort Indiantown Gap. The armor company, based in West Pittston, primarily trains on M1 Abrams tanks and has participated in multiple deployments in the past 10 years. Cameron replaces Capt. John M. Del Palazzo, who has been in command of Delta Company for the past 18 months. Del Palazzo is leaving to take command of HHC 55th Brigade in Scranton. Cameron enlisted in the Army in 1991 and joined the National Guard in 1999. He continued as a non-commissioned officer in several occupational specialties and reached the rank of staff sergeant. He received a direct commission in 2005 and held numerous positions since, including armor platoon leader, company executive officer, mortar platoon leader and battalion liaison officer. Cameron also deployed to Germany in 2002 and Afghanistan in 2008. Cameron works full time as the homeland response force planner for the 55th Heavy Brigade Combat team. He resides in Kunkletown with his wife and two children. Del Palazzo joined the Marine Reserves in 1996 and later joined the National Guard in 2003 where he became a commissioned officer. Del Palazzo held a variety of positions including field artillery platoon leader, Battery Rear Det commander and staff positions in a Cavalry Squadron and Combined Arms Battalion. Del Palazzo works full time with the 28th Infantry Division as the force modernization action officer. He resides in Carlisle with his wife.
Navy Seaman Apprentice Nicholas E. Major, son of Tina M. Major and Ricky A. Major, both of Dallas, has completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill. During the eight-week program, Major completed a variety of training which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. He is a 2005 graduate of Dallas High School.