The 3rd Infantry Division and Fort Stewart-Hunter Army Airfield welcomed a new commander during a ceremony held Monday morning at Fort Stewart.

Maj. Gen. Antonio Aguto Jr. assumed command of the division as Soldiers, families and friends bid farewell to the former commander, Maj. Gen. Leopoldo Quintas Jr.

The change of command ceremony was officiated by Gen. Michael Garrett, commanding general, U.S. Army Forces Command.

"Maj. Gen. Aguto is an extraordinary leader with extensive operational experience, he knows what it takes to ensure our Soldiers and units are ready for any mission," said Garrett.  "He is the exact right leader to lead the 3rd Infantry Division and I am confident that we will lead this division to new heights."

Quintas and his wife, Lori, will be stationed at Fort Bragg, N.C. where he will assume the responsibility of deputy commanding general for U.S. Army Forces Command.  Aguto and his wife, Melanie, are coming to Coastal Georgia from Fort Bragg, N.C. where he was the operations officer for U.S. Army Forces Command.

Garrett stated, "We offer you [Aguto] a new set of challenges perhaps the most difficult set of challenges that any general officer can face, is taking a great unit to build on the momentum to keep it great."