(Jan 13, 2006) -- Maj Gregory Harris has assumed the reins of the Army Military Affiliate Radio System (MARS) program from Bob Sutton, N7UZY, who is recuperating from an illness.

Harris, who inherits the AAA9A MARS call sign, has been assistant chief of Army Mars and executive agent of the MARS program. "I want to take this opportunity to thank Mr Sutton for his long service as Chief, Army MARS," Harris said January 10 in an announcement to all Army MARS members and stations. "At this point it is more important that his health take precedence for a speedy recovery."

Harris also expressed his gratitude to "all the dedicated volunteers" who make the Army MARS program a success. "I look forward to continuing in this proud tradition and working with as many of you as possible over the coming year as Army MARS continues to be 'proud, professional and ready,'" he said.

Harris said he will "continue to fill in" upon Sutton's return and to "begin reconstructing the MARS program that will better support our members."

Army MARS is headquartered at Ft Huachuca in Arizona.

Information courtesy of the American Radio Relay League