USMEPCOM Welcomes New Commander

By Louis B. Wiseman

Marine Corps Col. Richard T. Brady, incoming commander, accepts the USMEPCOM guidon from Stephanie P. Miller, Director of Military Accession Policy, Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Military Personnel Policy.

NORTH CHICAGO, Ill. – United States Military Entrance Processing Command welcomed a new commander at a May 24 change of command ceremony.

Marine Corps Col. Richard T. Brady assumed command, succeeding Navy Capt. David S. Kemp.

Brady will retain command of Western Sector, USMEPCOM until July 19. Kemp will assume duties with the Office of the Chief of Naval Personnel in Washington, D.C.

Stephanie P. Miller, Director of Military Accession Policy, Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Military Personnel Policy, officiated the event.

After citing Kemp's many accomplishments and efforts in the transformation area while in command, Miller focused on her attention to person-to-person relationships.

"Most importantly," she said, "you reset our relationships with recruiters and stakeholders. These efforts paid off in unprecedented trust and good will with our partners and stakeholders showing them that USMEPCOM is indeed a valued partner."

Miller then turned her attention to Brady.

"You bring to this leadership role a track record of excellence and a clear passion for the mission, the people and their families," Miller said.

Kemp thanked the staff at headquarters and the MEPS.

"You are the ones keeping this organization fair in the channel," he said. "I am truly grateful to you and thank you for your support, hard work and dedication."

Brady reflected on the command's past and future.

"For 43 years, USMEPCOM has been the pathway through which millions of Americans have been given the opportunity to serve in the armed forces," he said. "What we do and what we are will not change. We are, and we will remain, Freedom's Front Door."

Navy Capt. David S. Kemp, outgoing commander of USMEPCOM, administers the oath of enlistment to future Sailor Brandon Swanson of Libertyville, Illinois. Swanson will report to Boot Camp May 28. It was Kemp's last official act before relinquishing command.