PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE
Indiana National Guard
www.in.ng.mil
dvidshub.net/unit/JFHQ-INNG
For Immediate Release
Tuesday, May 4, 2020
For additional information contact ng.in.inarng.list.pao@mail.mil
38th Combat Aviation Brigade gets new commander, command sergeant major
SHELBYVILLE — The Indiana National Guard Director of Army Aviation and Safety returned to the 38th Combat Aviation Brigade to assume command during a ceremony, at Camp Atterbury, Saturday, May 1, 2021.
Col. Mathew Handy took the reins from outgoing commander Col. Larry Muennich’s, who's next assignment will be as the Indiana State Army Aviation Officer.
"It's an honor to command the 38th Combat Aviation Brigade, a unit I have been part of for over two decades, I've seen the brigade grow with my full-time responsibility as the State Aviation and Safety Officer," Handy remarked. "It is now my responsibility to keep the brigade ready to meet future challenges."
Muennich departed from command, after successfully leading the brigade through unprecedented times caused by the pandemic.
"The pandemic challenged us to think differently and develop new ways to safely train and execute our mission,” stated Muennich. “During this time of challenges we continued to provide force structure overseas in support of our national interests as well as supported COVID-19 relief efforts right here at home."
During the same event, Command Sgt. Maj. Derrick Kuhns assumed his position as senior enlisted adviser to the commander, taking over for Command Sgt. Maj. Ken Mobley.
“Command Sgt. Maj. Kuhns, Chief Warrant Officer Doug Johnson, and I are focused on individual readiness, knowing our soldiers need time to balance their families and career," said Handy. “As always, our leaders and soldiers stand ready to fulfill their duty."
The state's aviation brigade mobilizes, deploys and conducts full spectrum aviation operations supporting the 38th Infantry Division in order to provide the forces, equipment, and aviation capabilities necessary to respond to state and national emergencies, and to deploy overseas.
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