Photo By Spc. Harrison Moore | First Sgt. Angela Wilkins hands the guide on to Warrant Officer Katherine Strobel as...... read more read more
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202nd Army Band Change of Command
Story and Photos by Spc. Harrison Moore, 133rd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
FRANKFORT, Ky. – Chief Warrant Officer Five Gregory N. Stepp relinquished the 202nd Army Band command to Warrant Officer Katherine Strobel during a change of command ceremony at Wellman Armory on Boone National Guard Center, Frankfort, Ky., September 24, 2022.
In a ceremony attended by friends, family, and the supporting units, both incoming and outgoing commanders shared highlights brought on by the occasion.
The reviewing officer, Lt. Col. Gabriel Spicer, 751st Troop Commander, remarked with a clear overview of Stepp’s accomplishments as 202nd Army Band Commander over the years. Spicer also welcomed Strobel, sharing with the audience that the 202nd Army band is transitioning into capable hands.
“Nobody makes it to the level that Chief Stepp has without providing relentless training and mentorship. He has never lost sight of training his Soldiers at a high level and his leadership and character are second to none,” said Spicer.
During his outgoing speech, Stepp reflected fondly on his time as band commander.
“It was a pleasure for me to travel across the country to evaluate over 40 National Guard bands, and I found that our band was right up there at the top,” said Stepp as he prepared to depart the 202nd Army Band with his family.
Stepp has served the commonwealth of Kentucky in a variety of roles for over 30 years. He obtained a Bachelor’s degree in music education and a Master of Arts in secondary education from the University of Kentucky. He has been a band director at LaRue County High School, Western Hills High School and Glasgow High School, all while balancing his weighty responsibilities in the Kentucky National Guard. Furthermore, he was named as the chief of the Army National Guard Band Program in 2016. Stepp’s presence as conductor and bandmaster will be greatly missed by the 202nd.
After the ceremony, Stepp’s friends and family shared how proud they are of his accomplishments, not only as a leader but as a husband, father, and friend.
“The biggest thing I want to talk about this afternoon is the support that I have gained from all of you. This is not a one-person job, being the commander, and you all have helped so much,” Stepp said.
Strobel has 11 years of military experience and has served in numerous positions and instruments within the Army band. Over the past 2 years, Strobel has attained the rank of Warrant Officer, title of bandmaster, and finally company commander.
“There are many words that come to mind when I think about taking command of the 202, but the words that come to mind the most often are ‘profound gratitude,’” said Strobel.
As Strobel gave her incoming remarks, she thanked the many people on the staff who continuously supported 202nd Army Band Soldiers.
“I’d like to thank CW5 Stepp and Lt. Col. Spicer for the opportunity to take command of the 202nd Army Band,” said Strobel.
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| Date Taken: | 09.24.2022 |
| Date Posted: | 09.24.2022 17:03 |
| Story ID: | 430037 |
| Location: | FRANKFORT, KY, US |
| Web Views: | 158 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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