FORT RUCKER, AL (WDNews) During a Change of Responsibility ceremony Thursday, CW5 Michael A. Corsaro was replaced as Chief Warrant Officer of the Aviation Branch by Chief Warrant Officer 5 Robert S. Slider, marking a leadership transition at the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence.
The official transfer of responsibility at the historic home of Army Aviation was highlighted by the symbolic passing of the officer’s saber from Corsaro to Maj. Gen. Clair A. Gill and then to Slider.
Gill stated that the purpose of today’s celebration is to honor leadership, experience, and service. Together, these two men have served our Army and our country with distinction for almost 70 years.
As a warfighter first with more than 30 years of service, including training and commanding attack pilots, Gill commended Slider’s experience and preparedness for the position.
Gill stated, “I can’t think of a better warrant officer to take his place than CW5 Scott Slider, but Mike leaves big shoes to fill.” From the front, he battles.
Throughout his lengthy career, Slider has served as a standards officer, deployed to several combat zones, and held senior positions at the Pentagon, Fort Campbell, and Fort Riley. He previously worked in the Directorate of Evaluation and Standardization at Fort Rucker.
Slider expressed gratitude to his family, teammates, and leaders for their support. He remarked, “I am so honored to be here.” Being a member of this elite team is an honor. I am excited to get started and look forward to having a say in how Army aviation develops in the future.
Gill recognized Corsaro’s achievements by praising his operational experience, leadership in programs including officer education and the Aviation Tactics Instructor Course, and more.
Gill remarked, “Mike is a rare breed.” He is a leader with unwavering faith, a skilled trainer, and a decorated war veteran.
In addition to praising the Fort Rucker team, Corsaro, who is retiring from active duty, called the assignment the honor of his life.
According to Corsaro, never give up and never stop working to improve our Army from the day before. I love you, God bless you, Fly Army, and we’ll defend this.
