Regimental Command Sergeant Major

Military Police, May, 2001 by Daniel B. Rimmer

Greetings from Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, home to our Regiment! The past 6 months have flown by. I am proud to state I have been successful in my plan to get to the field and spend time with units and soldiers. I have several more trips planned for the next 6 months as well.

I can report to everyone, without bias, that our Regiment is doing great and making a difference everywhere we are located. I would ask each of you to take a few moments and reflect on the accomplishments of your unit, your soldiers, and yourself for the past 6 months. I know you have had a positive impact on the communities where you serve--active, Guard, and Reserve alike. Thank you for all that you do everyday, everywhere!

As we move from winter through spring into summer, so will the Army move through transition. Much like predicting the weather, which is a science, there are many variables that can impact the prediction. What you can count on is, the sun will rise and set and the weather will change. Adding some green to that analogy means you and I will come and go and the Army will change. We are in our 226th year of existence as a military, and we are the most trusted institution in our country. Much of that is because we have great leaders leading great soldiers but also because we have always balanced change and tradition. I am confident we will continue through the next series of changes with that same philosophy and wisdom. Our Regiment will remain on point during transformation as "the force of choice."

Summer means personnel turbulence, and we are not exempt. Brigadier General Foley will retire and be replaced by Brigadier General Ryder as the CID commander. Brigadier General Curry will return to USAMPS as the commandant. These great leaders are the best in the Army, and they will continue to move us forward and keep us united as "one Regiment."

We are also losing several sergeants major this year with 30 years of service to the Regiment. We can't replace all that experience and knowledge, but I know "they" will continue to serve and stay in touch with the Regiment wherever they land. God bless, and good luck to all of you!

As I speak to our NCOES classes, to include the sergeants-major course, our future is in great hands. I see eager sergeants who are packed full of fire and desire. They will see us safely through the change of the next two decades. Their ability to train the next generation will make the difference. Remember, courage can slow the enemy's progress, but it can't replace poor training! Training is the most important thing you can do everyday, so do it right.