Fort Buchanan bids farewell to Bergman-Gándara after two years of dedicated leadership

FORT BUCHANAN, Puerto Rico - Service members, civilians and families gathered at the Fort Buchanan chapel Aug. 12 to honor Command Sgt. Maj. Kimberly D. Bergman-Gándara as she prepares to conclude her tenure as the installation command sergeant major Aug. 14.

The farewell gathering brought members of the Fort Buchanan community together to recognize Bergman-Gándara's leadership, service and commitment to the workforce, Soldiers and families during her two years as the installation's senior enlisted leader.

Ulises Marrero, acting garrison manager, expressed the installation's appreciation for Bergman-Gándara and reflected on her leadership through a period that presented significant challenges for the workforce and the installation.

"We are here as a community, not as a garrison," Marrero said. "It was two difficult years. Hiring freezes, and other actions. But you were amazing. You have been there for us when we had difficulties."

Throughout the event, representatives from Fort Buchanan directorates and teammates presented Bergman-Gándara with tokens of appreciation, highlighting the relationships she developed across the installation during her tenure.

Bergman-Gándara said those relationships and everyday interactions held greater meaning for her than the gifts she received.

"I really, truly appreciate every interaction, more so than the gifts," Bergman-Gándara said. "I have so many memories."

Her remarks also reflected the people-centered approach she brought to her role as the installation's senior enlisted leader.

"To me, taking care of me is taking care of all of them," Bergman-Gándara said.

Chaplain (Maj.) Farlin Reynoso led those attending in prayer, asking for God's blessing on Bergman-Gándara and her family as they prepare for her next assignment.

"We are here in the house of God so, as a community, we can pray together for them," Marrero said.

The gathering also provided an opportunity for Bergman-Gándara to thank the Soldiers, civilians, families and teammates who supported her throughout her assignment at Fort Buchanan.

"Thank you for embracing me and for making me feel like family," Bergman-Gándara said.

Bergman-Gándara will officially conclude her responsibilities as installation command sergeant major Aug. 14. Her farewell gathering reflected the relationships she built across Fort Buchanan and the installation's commitment to recognizing the people whose leadership and service strengthen the Army's home in the Caribbean.