Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 167 bid farewell to Sgt. Maj. Wayne L. Allen, and welcomed Sgt. Maj. Charles E. Wells during a relief and appointment ceremony in the squadron’s hangar, aboard Marine Corps Air Station New River, Feb. 27.

Allen served as the “Warriors” sergeant major from May 2012 to February 2014.

Commanding officer Lt. Col. Robert B. Finneran spoke and commended Allen of how well he led and took care of the Marines during his time with them.

“It’s a bittersweet day, we pass the sword from Sgt. Maj. Allen to Sgt. Maj. Wells,” said Finneran.

Finneran continued to praise Allen on his accomplishment while the squadron was deployed.

“It was Sgt. Maj. Allen’s steady and constant leadership, and his agility to quickly reform a new command team under very tumultuous circumstances that provided this squadron the opportunity to persevere and succeed, and continue to support the Marines on the ground in Afghanistan,” said Finneran.

Allen said he could not have accomplished all the great things without the support of the Marines.

“The Marines of HMLA-167 have accomplished a lot over the last two years. They have been ridden hard and they have done a great job,” said Allen. “I appreciate everything they have done.”

During the ceremony, Finneran made a point to welcome Wells to the squadron.

“Sgt. Maj. Wells, it is great to have you here,” said Finneran. “I’m excited to have you. I look forward to you taking this squadron to its next steps, so thank you.”

In his first address to the Marines of the squadron, Wells informed them of how excited he is to begin working with them.

“It’s a true honor to step off on the left foot with a full 30-inch step with all of you,” said Wells.