FORT RUCKER, Ala.— Lyster Army Health Clinic welcomed incoming commander Lt. Col. Ryan Allred and bid farewell to Lt. Col. Leah Steder during a change of command ceremony at the Army Aviation Museum at Fort Rucker on July 9, 2026.
Community leaders, colleagues, family, and friends gathered to watch the time-honored military tradition against a picturesque backdrop of aviation history on display at the museum.
During the ceremony, the colors were passed from the hands of Steder to Brig. Gen. Jamie Burk, Medical Readiness Command, East commanding general, and then to Allred, symbolizing the transfer of command from the outgoing to the incoming commander.
Burk recognized the many milestones Steder and the clinic accomplished during her tenure, welcomed Allred, and remarked on his ability to continue to lead the clinic into the future.
Under Steder’s leadership, Lyster was selected for the prestigious Wolf Pack Award. From shaping medical strategy and readiness at the home of Army aviation, her leadership has left an indelible mark. She led initiatives to improve access to care for aviators and flight crews, implemented the Flight Surgeon of the Day program, and championed modernization campaigns, including the establishment of virtual flight physicals.
Outgoing commander Lt. Col. Leah Steder stated it was a great honor to serve Lyster and the Fort Rucker community. Steder remarked, “People often ask me what I’m most proud of during my command. Together we expanded access to care, strengthened readiness, advanced Aviation Medicine, built stronger partnerships, improved how we deliver care, and earned recognition. Those accomplishments matter, but they aren’t what I’m most proud of. I’m proudest of the culture we built together.”
Steder will continue her Army career as a Deputy Commander with the Institute of Surgical Research in San Antonio.
Incoming commander Lt. Col. Ryan Allred said he is honored to be joining the Lyster family. “Lyster stands as the medical enablers for the home of Army Aviation – a responsibility we carry with immense pride.” He went on to add, “We fly together. We do this by building readiness, building relationships, and building leaders.”
Prior to his arrival at Fort Rucker, Allred was assignedas the Commander of Dental Health Activity-Rheinland Pfalz and Deputy Commander for Dental Services for Landstuhl Regional Medical Center.
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In a separate ceremony, Steder was honored with the Meritorious Service Medal and the Order of St. Michael, surrounded by family, community leaders, colleagues, and friends.
| Date Taken: |
07.10.2026 |
| Date Posted: |
07.10.2026 17:31 |
| Story ID: |
569736 |
| Location: |
FORT NOVOSEL, ALABAMA, US |
| Web Views: |
37 |
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