Incoming | Red River Army Depot welcomes its new commander in change of command ceremony

Col. Jack W. Kredo, RRAD commander, speaks to the audience during the depot's change of command ceremony. Col. Stephen M. York, left, relinquished command of the depot Wednesday morning following a two-year tenure. (Submitted photo)
Col. Jack W. Kredo, RRAD commander, speaks to the audience during the depot's change of command ceremony. Col. Stephen M. York, left, relinquished command of the depot Wednesday morning following a two-year tenure. (Submitted photo)

Red River Army Depot held its change of command Wednesday, where Col. Stephen M. York handed command of the depot to Col. John W. Kredo, who will be the post's 43rd commander.

Because of current COVID-19 restrictions, the attendance of the ceremony was limited to a select audience, with some of the remarks done via video.

After an introduction, the ceremony kicked off with the arrival of the official party and the Star-Spangled Banner, followed by an invocation and other traditional gestures. The official transfer of command was marked by passing of the colors, where the post's guidon was handed off from York to Kredo.

York noted the difference in ceremony due to the current limitations, though. In his outgoing remarks, he especially gave thanks to all the "Red River organizations who ensured the ceremony was seamless. And Team Red River, I watched you meet and exceed every challenge put before you. From your hard work to recertify as a VPP Star Site to rebuilding multiple vehicle configurations in support of 1st Theater Sustainment Command, this team is truly committed to mission accomplishment.

"Even after a nine-month stop-work, beyond the depot's control, you were able to complete the Afghan Humvee budget, while maintaining a second to none quality level. It goes without saying, this is a tremendous organization."

Kredo said that his goal in this command is to enable the Army's ability to deploy, fight and win "our nation's wars, by providing ready, prompt, and sustained readiness to our warfighters."

He also gave credit to Team Red River.

"I'm excited to have the opportunity to work with some of the finest people our country has to offer," he said. "Believe me, Red River Army Depot has a tremendous reputation with the soldiers of our army. If you spend one minute on Red River Army Depot, you will immediately see the pride our team members take in their work. That is truly inspiring. Who would not be excited about that? I also think it is a fantastic opportunity to be part of the greater Texarkana community. My family and I have been welcomed with open arms in ways we have never been before.

"We are excited to get to know and be a part of this community."

The video of the ceremony can be viewed on Red River Army Depot's Facebook page.

Upcoming Events