FORT JACKSON, S.C. – The 81st Readiness Division welcomed its newest commanding general as Maj. Gen. Karen S. Monday Gresham relieved Maj. Gen. Patricia R. Wallace during a change of command ceremony on Fort Jackson, September 13.
Maj. Gen. Robert D. Harter, Chief of Army Reserve and Commanding General of the U.S. Army Reserve Command, presided over the ceremony. He praised the Division’s Soldiers and civilian workforce for their achievements under Wallace’s leadership and for their unwavering dedication to the Army Reserve.
“This is a great Wildcat day,” said Harter. “Thank you, Maj. Gen Wallace, for what you have done here at the 81st.You have taken the Division to a whole new level.”
Wallace, who assumed command in July 2024, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to serve with the Wildcats and lead what she called a remarkable team of professionals.
“Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication to the Soldiers, civilians and communities we serve,” said Wallace. “Your hard work and commitment ensure the 81st Readiness Division successfully delivers the mission and priorities of the Army Reserve. Always remember that what you do matters and is essential to ensuring we are combat-ready.”
Harter welcomed Monday Gresham, calling her “an exceptional leader” and “absolutely the right person to advance the mission here at the 81st.” He said she and Command Sgt. Maj. Hubbard are the right leaders to drive the division forward.
Monday Gresham thanked Wallace for her leadership and said she looked forward to serving the division. She emphasized her commitment to readiness and ensuring the command remains prepared to meet the evolving needs of the Army Reserve.
“I am incredibly honored to join your ranks. I stand ready to lead you, to learn from you, and to build upon the legendary legacy of this unit,” said Monday Gresham. “My charge to you is simple:Come to work every single day motivated, focused, and ready to make a difference. I pledge to do the exact same for you. Let’s attack our mission and own our shared future.”
The 81st Readiness Division has responsibility for base operations for Army Reserve units through the Southeastern United States and Puerto Rico, and is responsible for ensuring units and Soldiers are prepared to deploy and fight in multi-domain operations and meet current and future Combatant Commander Force requirements.
| Date Taken: | 09.13.2026 |
| Date Posted: | 09.13.2026 15:15 |
| Story ID: | 574580 |
| Location: | US |
| Web Views: | 20 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, 81st Readiness Division Welcomes New Commanding General, by Tommy Crosby, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
