The Fort Carson garrison welcomed Col. Phill Warren as its commander and bid farewell to Col. Erik C. Oksenvaag during a change of command ceremony Aug. 12, 2026, at Founders Field. Warren assumed command from Oksenvaag, who has served as garrison commander since August 2024.
Presiding officer Brenda McCullough, Director of Installation Management Command-Pacific, provided opening remarks during the ceremony.
“Fortunately, the Army has an unerring ability to place the right leader at the right command at the right time,” said McCullough. “Phill, you might have gathered that you have big shoes to fill, but given your background and experience, I know you are no stranger to a fast-paced, demanding operational environment. I know you will succeed.”
Warren’s most recent assignment was assistant commandant at the U.S. Army Military Police School at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. His previous assignments include assistant executive officer to the deputy chief of staff for operations, plans and training, Headquarters Department of the Army, in Washington, D.C.; commander, 93rd Military Police Battalion, Fort Bliss, Texas; and plans chief, Eighth Army Provost Marshal Office, Camp Humphreys, Korea. He has had three operational deployments in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Warren settled in at the podium and addressed the garrison staff for the first time.
“I’m deeply honored and humbled to join your ranks as the garrison commander. Being entrusted with responsibility for this installation, the ‘Best Hometown in the Army,’ is the greatest privilege of my career,” said Warren. “To the Soldiers and civilians of the garrison workforce, you are the engine that drives this premier power-projection platform.
“I leave you with this commitment: to lead with purpose, to listen and to always act in the best interests of our Soldiers, Families and civilians. Together, we will ensure that Fort Carson remains the ‘Best Hometown in the Army.’”
McCullough highlighted Oksenvaag’s accomplishments as garrison commander.
“Today is the day of a command marked by excellence. Eric’s loss will be felt by IMCOM-Pacific and the Fort Carson community. I’m extremely proud of the work Eric has done to integrate this installation into IMCOM-Pacific,” said McCullough.
Oksenvaag, who will retire from the Army, shared his final thoughts with his garrison team and welcomed Warren to Fort Carson.
“To an incredible installation and workforce, thank you,” he said. “I know the past 18 months have been marked by uncertainty and fear, but you weathered the storm with unmatched resilience. Your monumental achievements and unwavering dedication have kept this installation running safely and effectively. You have been, and always will be, the heartbeat of Fort Carson. Phill, you’re joining an extraordinary workforce, a dedicated command team, and a community that truly cares. I’m sure you will lead them to greater heights.”
| Date Taken: |
08.12.2026 |
| Date Posted: |
08.12.2026 18:08 |
| Story ID: |
572270 |
| Location: |
FORT CARSON, COLORADO, US |
| Web Views: |
62 |
| Downloads: |
0 |
PUBLIC DOMAIN
This work, Fort Carson welcomes new garrison commander, by John Switzer, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
