Photo By Sgt. Destini Keene | U.S. Army Col. Terry Durham celebrates with his son, Luke; wife, Penny; and daughter,...... read more read more
RICHMOND, Ky. — The Kentucky Army National Guard’s 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade (MEB) officially welcomed a new commander during a change-of-command ceremony at Madison Central High School’s football field, Oct. 18, 2025.
The event recognized the service of outgoing commander U.S. Army Col. Brandye Williams, and formally transferred responsibility to Col. Terry Durham. Soldiers, families, distinguished guests, former commanders and senior leaders from across Kentucky attended, a reflection of the brigade’s long-standing tradition and community ties.
The ceremony’s central element was the symbolic passing of the brigade’s colors, representing the commander’s authority, responsibility, and the unity and loyalty of its Soldiers.
Brigade Command Sgt. Maj. Aaron Lester presented the colors to Williams for the last time, who then passed them to Brig. Gen. Joseph Gardner, formally relinquishing her command and responsibilities. Gardner then passed the colors to Durham, signifying his assumption of brigade command.
Williams was awarded the Legion of Merit for her meritorious service, recognizing her leadership, interpersonal skills, and steadfast commitment to duty. Her tenure as brigade commander, from Dec. 2, 2023 to Oct. 18, 2025, was marked by strong leadership and dedication.
Gardner praised Williams’ leadership during a period that included both domestic missions and overseas operations. He noted her ability to maintain readiness, execute complex missions, and foster a culture of professionalism and excellence across the brigade.
In addition to recognizing Williams, Gardner emphasized the brigade’s critical role within the Kentucky Army National Guard and the importance of maintaining operational capability, readiness, and resilience.
Williams also received framed colors from the brigade and its subordinate units as a token of appreciation for her guidance and her profound impact on Soldiers, families, and the brigade.
In her farewell remarks, Williams reflected on the brigade’s numerous accomplishments, from complex training exercises and overseas missions to domestic emergency response operations. She emphasized the dedication of the brigade staff and subordinate units, including the 103rd Chemical Battalion, 198th Military Police Battalion, 201st and 206th Engineer Battalions, 149th Signal Company, and the 613th Engineer Facilities Attachment, noting their integral role in ensuring the brigade’s operational readiness and effectiveness.
She highlighted deployments and operations at Camp Atterbury, Indiana, where the brigade supported division-level protection and security missions, as well as domestic operations throughout Kentucky in response to floods, tornadoes, ice storms, and other emergencies.
Williams spoke about the moments of camaraderie with Soldiers and families that she developed throughout her command, expressing gratitude to her mentors and Command Sgt. Maj. Lester for their advice, support, and partnership.
“We made a great team,” said Williams. “I couldn’t imagine having a better partner with me during this journey of leadership.”
She also acknowledged the sacrifices of her family, who supported her during long separations and the demanding responsibilities of command.
“It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve as your commander,” said Williams. “I am and forever will be a Legionnaire, and we are never defeated.”
Upon assuming command, Durham emphasized the brigade’s motto, “Never Defeated,” as a guiding principle for perseverance, courage, and teamwork. He pledged to continue the legacy of excellence established by Williams, ensure operational readiness, and provide steadfast support to the Soldiers and families of the 149th MEB.
Durham also highlighted the importance of leadership at every level, rigorous training, and adherence to Army Values. Every Soldier, regardless of rank contributes to the mission and must embrace responsibility, accountability, and leadership.
Family members were also honored during the ceremony, including a presentation of yellow roses to Durham’s wife, Penny, and a bottle of Kentucky bourbon to Williams’ husband, Samuel, in recognition of their support to the brigade.
The ceremony also provided historical context on military customs, including ruffles and flourishes, bugle calls, and the significance of the colors, which symbolize the heritage, history, and esprit de corps of the brigade. Units represented at the ceremony included the brigade headquarters and support company, engineer battalions, chemical and military police battalions, the 149th Signal Company, and engineer facilities attachments.
The event concluded with a post-ceremony reception celebrating Williams’ achievements and welcoming Durham and his family into the 149th MEB community.
The 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade remains a cornerstone of the Kentucky Army National Guard, ensuring the state and nation can rely on its professionalism, discipline, and operational readiness.
| Date Taken: | 10.18.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 11.24.2025 15:53 |
| Story ID: | 551085 |
| Location: | RICHMOND, KENTUCKY, US |
| Web Views: | 44 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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