RICHMOND, Ky –
The Kentucky National Guard welcomed Col. John Edwards as commander of the 75th Troop Command during a ceremony Feb.6 at the Joint Operations Center in Richmond, Ky.
“I have learned a lot from my past commanders,” Edwards said. “Each person who I have served under has given me advice and guidance that brought me here today.”
A highly decorated veteran with a 23-year career, Edwards will bring his experience as an engineer and chemical officer to the 75th with pride. He’s worked with junior leaders as a TAC officer at the 238th Regiment and commanded the 103rd Chemical Battalion in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2005.
“I challenge him to elevate the 75th Troop Command to another level,” said Maj. Gen. Edward W. Tonini, adjutant general.
With his experience as a TAC Officer, Tonini urged Edwards to mentor and push young officers toward success.
“Think outside the box and develop our junior leaders,” he said. “Our junior leaders across Kentucky are the key to our future and I want you to personally focus on their development, assign mentors and push them with realistic and tough training.”
Edwards will attend the U.S. Army War College this summer. He assumed command from Col. Wayne Burd who is assigned as special projects officer for the Kentucky National Guard.