Photo By Sgt. Amber Bohlman | Lt. Col. Peggy J. Grunewald holds the 253rd Engineer Battalion guidon after assuming command of the battalion at Kasson Readiness Center, Feb. 11. Grunewald brings many years of engineering experience and knowledge to her new duty assignment. see less
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FLORENCE, Ariz. – The Arizona Army National Guard’s 253rd Engineer Battalion held a change of command ceremony at Kasson Readiness Center Feb. 11.
Lt. Col. Peggy J. Grunewald of Troy, Ohio assumed command from Lt. Col. William P. Fay who led the battalion for the past three years.
“He built an outstanding team that is the 253rd Engineer Battalion,” said Col. Lonnie Branum, 158th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade commander. “He demanded high standards and exhibited a tireless dedication to mission accomplishment and taking care of Soldiers.”
Branum said Grunewald has big shoes to fill, but he believes her skills and knowledge will be an asset as she returns to the battalion.
Grunewald brings a lot of engineering experience to the unit. She holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and a master’s degree in engineering management. She commissioned as an engineer officer and served for six years on active duty.
In 2009 Grunewald joined the Arizona National Guard and has commanded at several levels including Forward Support Company, 215th Regional Training Institute and the Recruiting and Retention Bn.
“The 253rd has a long line of outstanding past commanders, and I have no doubt she will continue to add to this great lineage,” Branum said.
Grunewald expressed how thankful she is to be returning to the engineers, “I feel like I’ve come home,” she said. “I’m happy to be a part of this team.”
