In a huge show of support the Class of ’88 had over 50 members converge on Fort Campbell to watch MG Andrew Poppas ’88 take command of the 101st.
The 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) welcomed new leadership Thursday as Major General Andrew P. Poppas became the new Commanding General of the 101st and Fort Campbell. Around 10,000 Screaming Eagle soldiers were present at the Division Change of Command Ceremony that took place at the Division Parade Field on Post. General Poppas talked about taking over leadership of the 101st. “It’s truly a humbling experience to stand here today and assume command of this storied division. This is a division whose reputation of combat prowess was born in the most extreme condition of WWII and its legacy of heroism continues on today with the warriors that are standing before you,” he said.
Major General Gary J. Volesky has commanded the 101st since June of 2014 and will soon be promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General and take command of Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington. Poppas is no stranger to Fort Campbell; he has served as the commander of the 1st Brigade Combat Team “Bastogne” and the Deputy Commanding General for Operations of the 101st. The ceremony included a firing of cannons by a salute battery and a review of the troops by Lieutenant General Stephen J. Townsend, Commanding General of the XVIII Airborne Corps and Fort Bragg, General Volesky and General Poppas.
The passing of the colors is one of the major highlights of the Change of Command Ceremony. The colors represent the lineage and honors of the unit as well as the loyalty and unity of the soldiers. It symbolizes the transfer of responsibility and authority from the old commander to the new commander. Read More