Colonel Reginald G. A. Neal transitioned into his new role as commander of the 48th Infantry Brigade Combat Team.
Though the brigade dates back to 1825, there hasn't been an African-American commander since.
"There were some that said even though you're a good officer, you'll never command a 48th brigade and because of that, I worked harder. And not to say that I worked to become a commander, but I worked to be the best that I could be," said Neal.
On Sunday afternoon, Colonel Randall V. Simmons Jr. passed Neal the flag, charging him with authority.
Simmons ended his 2-year term with gratitude. 21 out of his 26 years of service have been devoted to the 48th infantry. Though his time is up, he'll continue serving
"I've been so very fortunate to have the opportunity to serve with them. I'm going to move on to be the chief of staff of the Georgia Army National Guard," said Simmons.
Simmons, who's known his successor for over two decades, says Colonel Reginald Neal will have no problem filling his shoes.
Neal says his history with the brigade bred him for the role
"I've seen the 48th brigade go through many changes and I've been part of those changes. Today is a big part of those changes," said Neal.
He plans on instilling his work ethic in his soldiers, encouraging them to surpass standards, rest and be ready, while using their motto "Send Me" more than ever before.
"The 48th brigade will be ready. We were ready in '94 during the flood when it came. We were ready when we went to Iraq, when we went to Afghanistan, and we'll be ready tomorrow," said Neal.
Neal is from Ludowici, GA and graduated from Georgia Military College.
