(Carlisle Barracks, May 18) – “It’s a good day as we pause to make sure we appropriately recognize the important accomplishments of three early graduates,” said Maj. Gen. David Hill, USAWC Commandant. “I am thankful that we did not let you slip out of here without giving your accomplishments and the successful completion of this rigorous program its due recognition,” said Hill.
Colonels David P. Key, Michael F. Kloepper, and Brian E. McCarthy graduated early from the War College due to operational requirements. During the ceremony in Bliss Hall, the diplomas were presented by Col. Michelle Ryan, Dean of the school of strategic landpower, USAWC Provost James Breckenridge, the commandant Maj. Gen. David Hill, and CSM Brian Flom.
Kloepper was also presented with the commandant's award for distinction in research for his strategy research project, “Generation ‘Z’ - Challenge to Lead.”
“It was a challenging year,” said Key, after the ceremony. “It started with meeting everyone for the first time virtually. We had to learn and work through it. Then by the end of the year, meeting my classmates face to face, which is something we learned to appreciate.
“I believe we got the most out of our educational experience at the War College given the circumstances that we were under,” said Key, who will be heading off to command the 3rd Infantry Division Sustainment Brigade at Fort Stewart, Ga.
All the early graduates are Army colonels heading to brigade command. Kleopper takes command of the 173rd Airborne Brigade in Vicenza, Italy. McCarthy will take command of the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kansas.
Col. Jon Meredith who has taken command the 1st Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division was required at at Fort Hood before the date of early graduation ceremony, and was graduated in absentia.
The rest of the class of 2021 will graduate on June 11, at 10:30 a.m. on Carlisle’s historic parade field. Graduates include 215 U.S. Army officers, 26 Air Force, 8 Navy, 16 Marines, 1 Coast Guard officer, 33 senior federal civilians, and 66 international officers.
Date Taken: | 05.18.2021 |
Date Posted: | 05.21.2021 08:41 |
Story ID: | 397020 |
Location: | CARLISLE BARRACKS, PENNSYLVANIA, US |
Web Views: | 480 |
Downloads: | 2 |
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