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Change of command

A change of command is a formal military ceremony conducted in armed forces worldwide that transfers authority and responsibility for a unit from an outgoing commanding officer to an incoming one, enabling subordinates to publicly witness the seamless continuity of leadership.^[1]^[2]^[3] The tradition of change of command ceremonies is deeply rooted in military history, with practices dating back to at least the 18th century when symbolic elements like unit flags began to represent command authority.^[4]^[5] Earlier origins may trace to ancient Roman times, where formal acknowledgments of leadership transitions ensured unit cohesion.^[6] In the U.S. armed forces, the ceremony evolved across branches: the Navy first documented it in regulations during the Civil War in 1865, with minimal procedural changes since, while the Army views it as a foundational custom from its inception.^[3]^[7] These events underscore the enduring principle that command is a sacred trust, publicly affirmed to maintain discipline and morale. Variations exist by country and military branch.^[2]^[8]

Overview

Definition

A change of command is a formal military tradition that signifies the transfer of authority and responsibility for a unit or organization from an outgoing commanding officer to an incoming one, ensuring continuity of leadership within the armed forces.^[2]^[3] This process includes key elements such as a symbolic handover—often involving the passing of unit colors, flags, documents, or insignia to represent the shift in stewardship—a public ceremony for announcement to subordinates and stakeholders, and official documentation like the reading of detachment and assumption orders to legally affirm the transition.^[9]^[1]^[3] It differs from "relief of command," which typically denotes an involuntary removal of a commander due to misconduct, performance issues, or loss of confidence in their leadership, often without a celebratory handover.^[10] In contrast, "assumption of command" refers to the incoming officer's unilateral acceptance of authority, which may occur independently or as part of a change of command but lacks the bilateral ceremonial exchange when no outgoing leader is present.^[12]

Purpose

The change of command ceremony serves as a critical mechanism for ensuring a seamless transition of leadership within military units, thereby preventing operational disruptions and maintaining the continuity of authority and unit identity despite changes in personnel.^[14]^[1]^[3] This formal process allows subordinates to directly observe the relinquishment and assumption of command, solidifying the ongoing operational readiness and stability of the organization.^[1]^[14] Beyond operational continuity, the ceremony boosts unit morale by providing a structured, respectful platform that publicly honors both the outgoing and incoming commanders, fostering a sense of unity, cohesion, and appreciation for their service.^[3]^[14]^[15] This recognition enhances familiarity with the new leader and reinforces collective pride in the unit's heritage, contributing to heightened motivation and loyalty among members.^[1] Furthermore, the event reinforces the chain of command and organizational loyalty through its public affirmation of the leadership transfer, which underscores the enduring authority structure and accountability within the military hierarchy.^[14]^[3] By conducting the ceremony with dignity and formality, it instills confidence in the command's legitimacy and promotes unwavering allegiance to the institution.^[1]^[15]

History

Origins

Military tradition attributes the origins of change of command ceremonies to ancient Roman legions, where the passing of a commander's baton in front of the assembled unit is said to have symbolized leadership handover, though direct historical evidence for such a formal ritual is lacking.^[16] The aquilifer, bearer of the sacred eagle standard (aquila), played a central role in embodying the unit's honor and continuity, with losing the aquila considered a profound disgrace from the Republican era onward.^[4] In the medieval period, related traditions evolved through knightly oaths of fealty, which formalized loyalty within feudal hierarchies, often sworn during dubbing ceremonies where a knight pledged service to a lord.^[17] A knight-to-be would kneel before a lord or sovereign, receiving a tap on the shoulders with a sword, symbolizing the bestowal of martial responsibility.^[18] Such oaths, rooted in chivalric codes from the 12th century, supported military retinues and ensured allegiance in decentralized warfare.^[19] Feudal systems incorporated symbolic gestures like the handing over of a sword during homage ceremonies, representing the investiture of authority, trust, and duty from lord to vassal.^[20] This act evoked protection and judgment, with breaches leading to severe repercussions such as excommunication or land forfeiture, institutionalizing continuity in Europe's polities from the 9th to 15th centuries.^[17] In the 18th century, the rise of standing armies in Europe incorporated regimental colors and standards into leadership handover rituals to denote unit identity.^[21] As permanent regiments formed in nations like France under Louis XIV and Prussia under Frederick William I, command changes involved public parades with the relinquishment of flags, affirming hierarchy and morale in disciplined forces.^[9]

Evolution in Modern Militaries

In the 19th century, British and French colonial armies emphasized formal protocols for continuity in imperial operations, influenced by professionalization of officer corps. The British Cardwell Reforms of 1871 abolished the purchase of commissions, promoting officers by merit and enhancing regimental cohesion. In the U.S. armed forces, the Navy first documented the ceremony in regulations during the Civil War in 1865, with minimal changes since, while the Army has viewed it as a foundational custom from its inception.^[3]^[7] Following World Wars I and II, practices adapted to larger units and modern warfare, with the U.S. Army using guidon transfers as a core ritual, later adopted by the Air Force for dignified, concise ceremonies.^[1] Post-Cold War developments since the 1990s promoted inclusivity in military leadership. The 1993 policy allowing women in combat aviation, the 2011 repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell," the 2016 integration of transgender servicemembers, and the opening of all combat roles to women enabled diverse representation in command positions and ceremonies.^[22]

Procedure

Preparation

The preparation for a change of command begins with the selection and vetting of the incoming commander by higher authorities within the military hierarchy. In the U.S. Army, as of 2025, the Centralized Selection List (CSL) process is used, where selection boards review officer evaluation reports, performance data, and other factors to identify and slate qualified officers for battalion and brigade command positions.^[23] Vetting extends to comprehensive checks for mental, physical, moral, and professional fitness, particularly for officers selected for promotion to ranks such as captain through colonel; this process, mandated by Army Directive 2016-26, involves reviews by the Director of Military Personnel Management using data from the Army Criminal Investigation Command, Inspector General reports, restricted personnel records, and flags on favorable actions to screen for issues like sexual harassment, domestic violence, DUIs, or patterns of misconduct.^[24] Once vetted, official orders are issued—such as "G" series orders in the Air Force prepared by base personnel offices in advance, or detachment and assignment messages in the Navy submitted through operational information exchange systems approximately one month prior—to formalize the transition and establish the effective date of command transfer.^[14]^[25] Logistical coordination follows to ensure operational readiness, typically commencing 1-2 weeks in advance but with some elements planned months earlier. Venue selection and reservations are prioritized based on the outgoing commander's preferences, such as a parade field or officers' club, with early booking to accommodate distinguished visitors and unit personnel; in the Navy, this includes reserving Navy Gateway Inns & Suites VIP rooms and assigning working parties for setup and cleanup.^[14]^[25] Guest lists are compiled collaboratively by outgoing and incoming commanders to include dignitaries, higher-ranking officials, and unit members, with invitations mailed no later than three weeks prior in the Air Force to avoid duplications and ensure protocol compliance; parking plans and seating charts are developed accordingly, often finalized about two weeks before the event.^[26]^[25] Rehearsal schedules are established, with at least one full-dress rehearsal for key participants in the Air Force and multiple sessions in the Navy—such as initial and final walkthroughs one to two weeks out—to coordinate movements and timing without revealing ceremonial elements.^[14]^[25] Documentation and administrative formalities are critical to legalize the transfer, often handled by protocol or administrative offices in coordination with the commanders. Official orders and related paperwork, including detachment fitness reports in the Navy drafted six months prior, are processed to document the change; turnover binders containing command philosophy, organizational structure, mission details, and updated policy letters for the incoming commander's signature are prepared and finalized shortly before the event.^[25]^[26] Speeches for the reviewing officer, outgoing, and incoming commanders are drafted collaboratively, typically one to two weeks in advance, with input from public affairs to align with command themes.^[14]^[25] Media notifications, including press releases and coordination for coverage, are issued by public affairs offices about one week prior, notifying local outlets and higher headquarters as needed to publicize the transition while adhering to security protocols.^[26]^[25] This phase culminates in a structured handover of command authorities, setting the stage for the formal event.

The Ceremony

The change of command ceremony is a formal military ritual that publicly transfers authority from the outgoing commander to the incoming one, emphasizing continuity, respect, and discipline through a structured sequence of events. This ceremony, rooted in longstanding traditions, typically unfolds in a parade-like format for outdoor settings or a more streamlined procession indoors, with variations based on the unit's size and branch of service.^[14] The standard sequence begins with the formation of troops and preliminary honors, often including prelude music and an invocation or opening prayer by a chaplain to set a solemn tone. The national anthem is then played, during which all personnel render honors by coming to attention and saluting, accompanied by ruffles and flourishes if a high-ranking officer is present. This is followed by a review of the troops, where the outgoing commander inspects the formation, symbolizing the unit's readiness and the commander's oversight.^[27]^[14] Next, the outgoing commander delivers brief remarks, reflecting on their tenure and expressing gratitude to the unit and families. The formal handover occurs when the orders transferring command are read aloud by a narrator or adjutant, followed by the symbolic passing of the unit colors or guidon from the outgoing commander to a senior officer (such as the presiding authority) and then to the incoming commander, who returns it to the unit's color bearer or sergeant major. This act represents the seamless transfer of responsibility. The incoming commander then addresses the assembly, outlining their vision and commitment to the unit. The ceremony often concludes with a benediction or closing prayer, additional remarks from a senior leader if applicable, and a pass in review where troops march past the official party.^[27]^[14] Military honors enhance the ceremony's dignity and scale with the unit's size; these include hand or rifle salutes during key moments, a parade formation for larger units, and optional flyovers by aircraft for brigade-level or higher commands. For battalion-level ceremonies, the event typically lasts 30-60 minutes, while higher echelons may extend to 90 minutes or more to accommodate expanded elements like cannon salutes or larger troop reviews.^[14]

Significance

Symbolic Importance

The change of command ceremony symbolizes the continuity of service and institutional memory within military units, ensuring that leadership transitions preserve the organization's enduring identity and historical legacy despite changes in personnel. By publicly acknowledging the accomplishments and tenure of the outgoing commander, the ritual honors their contributions, fostering a sense of shared heritage that binds past, present, and future members of the unit.^[28]^[29] This symbolism extends to building esprit de corps through the active involvement of the entire unit, which witnesses the proceedings and participates in elements like troop reviews and salutes, thereby reinforcing core values such as discipline, respect for authority, and collective commitment. The ceremonial pageantry stimulates unit pride and camaraderie, creating a psychological framework that unites personnel under a common purpose and tradition.^[30]^[31]^[9] Cultural adaptations further enhance this symbolic role, incorporating local customs to reflect national or regional heritage; for instance, in Commonwealth nations like Canada, bagpipe processions are integrated into change of command ceremonies, particularly in Scottish-influenced regiments, to evoke historical valor and communal spirit through traditional piping.^[32]

Legal Aspects

The legal foundation of a change of command in the U.S. military ensures that the transfer of authority is formal, documented, and binding, preventing ambiguity in command responsibility. Under regulations such as U.S. Army Regulation (AR) 600-20, the assumption of command must be effected through written orders or a memorandum issued by a superior authority, which announces the change and distributes it to relevant commands and personnel.^[33] This documentation is essential for establishing the legal validity of the transfer. While written orders or memoranda are standard, oral assumption of command is permitted for units that do not use formal orders or documentation.^[33] Similarly, in the Air Force, command appointments are announced via G-series orders from competent authority, such as the Secretary of the Air Force or a delegate, to confer explicit legal authority.^[34] Upon the effective date of the transfer, the incoming commander assumes full legal liability and responsibility for all unit actions, inheriting the predecessor's duties without qualification. AR 600-20 specifies that the successor takes on all responsibilities previously held by the outgoing commander, including operational, disciplinary, and administrative obligations, from the moment of handover.^[33] This immediate assumption aligns with broader military law principles, where commanders remain personally accountable for misconduct or failures within their scope, such as violations of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) or law of war obligations, even after delegation.^[34] In the event of emergencies like a commander's death or disability, the senior eligible officer assumes command by inherent authority, but this too requires subsequent formal documentation to solidify liability. Disputes over command transfers, though rare, are resolved through established military justice mechanisms to uphold chain-of-command integrity. Contested assumptions, such as eligibility challenges or relief for cause, fall under UCMJ Article 138 for complaints against commanders or AR 600-20 procedures requiring general officer approval and procedural safeguards like formal counseling.^[34] Higher authorities, including general court-martial convening authorities or the Inspector General, intervene to adjudicate issues like reprisal claims or improper designations, ensuring resolutions within defined timelines such as 30 days for formal complaints.^[34] These processes prioritize legal review by judge advocates to prevent unlawful influences on command authority.

Variations

By Country

In the United States, change of command ceremonies are formal events characterized by elaborate parades, troop reviews, and the symbolic passing of unit colors or guidons, all governed by service-specific regulations to ensure dignity and continuity.^[35] These protocols, outlined in documents such as the Army's TC 3-21.5 on Drill and Ceremonies and the Air Force's Guide for Change of Command Ceremonies, emphasize brevity, precision, and the presence of the entire unit to witness the transfer of authority, reflecting a tradition rooted in maintaining operational readiness and morale.^[14]^[36] In the United Kingdom, change of command practices within the armed forces place a strong emphasis on historical pageantry, drawing from centuries-old traditions that integrate ceremonial elements like inspections and the involvement of regimental colors, often evoking the grandeur seen in guard changes at royal sites such as Buckingham Palace or Windsor Castle.^[37] These ceremonies prioritize symbolic continuity and royal oversight, ensuring that the handover reinforces the monarchy's historical ties to the military while maintaining operational discipline. Russia's change of command ceremonies, particularly for high-level transfers, are heavily influenced by state protocols with direct Kremlin involvement, a practice solidified during the 1990s post-Soviet military reforms that centralized authority under the presidency.^[38] These events often occur in the Grand Kremlin Palace, featuring formal oaths, presentations of credentials, and presidential addresses to underscore loyalty to the state, as seen in ceremonies for senior officer appointments since the era of President Yeltsin's reforms.^[39] This structure reflects ongoing efforts to align military leadership with national political objectives, distinguishing Russian practices from more decentralized Western models. In China, protocols for change of command in the People's Liberation Army (PLA) integrate mandatory political loyalty oaths to the Chinese Communist Party, a requirement established post-1949 to ensure ideological alignment during the founding of the People's Republic.^[40] These ceremonies, governed by Central Military Commission directives, include recitations pledging absolute fidelity to the Party and its leadership—such as those reinforced under Xi Jinping in 2017—alongside formal handovers of command symbols, emphasizing the PLA's dual role as both a combat force and a guardian of socialist principles.^[41]

By Military Branch

In the United States Army, change of command ceremonies emphasize ground-based operations and unit discipline, typically featuring troop formations in line or mass, an optional inspection of the ranks by the reviewing party, and a pass in review where formed units march past the official stand executing eyes right and salutes. The central symbolic act involves the color guard presenting the unit's colors or guidon, which the outgoing commander passes to a presiding officer before the incoming commander receives it, signifying the transfer of authority and responsibility for the ground forces under command. These elements, conducted with precise drill movements such as dress right dress and cover, highlight the Army's focus on cohesion and readiness in terrestrial environments.^[36] United States Navy change of command ceremonies adapt to shipboard or shore-based settings, incorporating naval traditions like the ringing of the ship's bell—typically eight bells—to formally announce the arrival and departure of the outgoing and incoming commanding officers, symbolizing the continuity of watch and operational control. The procedure centers on the crew mustering at quarters in service dress uniforms, followed by the outgoing officer reading detachment orders and the incoming officer reading assumption orders, culminating in a salute and verbal acknowledgment of relief, often accompanied by the transfer of the command pennant from mast to mast if aboard ship. In some cases, the handover of the deck logbook occurs as part of the administrative turnover, underscoring the Navy's maritime heritage and emphasis on seamless command of vessels or shore installations.^[3]^[42] In the United States Air Force, ceremonies integrate aviation-centric features, such as coordinated aircraft flyovers by unit assets like fighters or transports immediately following the national anthem or during the pass in review, to demonstrate aerial prowess and the command's technological edge. The core protocol includes troop formations, honors with ruffles and flourishes, and the exchange of the unit guidon between commanders under a presiding officer, with the incoming commander saluting and stating assumption of command, often highlighting the transition of oversight for advanced systems like squadrons equipped with stealth aircraft or drones. This structure reinforces the Air Force's priority on air and space domain transitions, blending ground drill with demonstrative flight elements for inspirational effect.^[43]^[44] For joint forces commands in the U.S. military, such as Joint Task Forces or unified combatant commands, change of command ceremonies blend protocols from participating services, featuring integrated honor guards from multiple branches, inter-service musical support, and a combined troop review to symbolize interoperability. The presiding officer, typically a senior joint authority, oversees the guidon or flag exchange, with procedures adapted from DoD standards to ensure inclusivity, such as unified formations and shared honors, emphasizing the collaborative nature of multi-branch operations without favoring one service's traditions.^[45]

Notable Examples

United States

Change of command ceremonies in the United States military exemplify the nation's tradition of orderly leadership transitions, emphasizing continuity, respect for authority, and the symbolic passing of responsibility from one commander to another. These events, rooted in historical practices dating back to the Continental Army, are particularly prominent for high-profile positions and often incorporate elements like the passing of unit colors, troop reviews, and remarks highlighting service and future challenges.^[46] High-profile transfers frequently occur in the Arlington National Cemetery area, underscoring the ceremonies' solemn ties to American sacrifice and national memory. For instance, the 2020 change of command for the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment ("The Old Guard"), held at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall adjacent to Arlington National Cemetery, marked the transition from Col. James J. Tuite IV to Col. Patrick M. Roddy Jr., with participants from the unit's ceremonial and combat roles parading in full dress uniforms to honor the regiment's dual mission of guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and providing security. This event, condensed for public viewing amid pandemic restrictions, highlighted the Old Guard's enduring role in presidential ceremonies and national funerals, drawing media attention for its blend of tradition and resilience. Similarly, the Joint Task Force-National Capital Region/U.S. Army Military District of Washington change of command in July 2025 at Conmy Hall near Arlington featured Army Chief of Staff Gen. Randy A. George presiding over the handover from Maj. Gen. Trevor Bredenkamp to Brig. Gen. Antoinette Gant, emphasizing the command's oversight of Arlington events and Washington-area defense.^[47]^[48] Pentagon ceremonies for the Joint Chiefs of Staff represent the pinnacle of these traditions, often attended by the President to affirm civilian control and national unity. In September 2011, President Barack Obama presided over the change of office ceremony at the Pentagon where Gen. Martin E. Dempsey succeeded Adm. Mike Mullen as Chairman, delivering remarks on the challenges of post-9/11 operations and the need for strategic adaptation, with widespread media coverage underscoring the event's global implications. Another notable instance occurred in September 2019, when President Donald J. Trump participated in Gen. Mark A. Milley's assumption of the Chairman role at the Pentagon, focusing on themes of military readiness and alliance strength, broadcast live to highlight the administration's defense priorities. These events typically include the Secretary of Defense's involvement and are live-streamed, amplifying their role in public discourse on national security.^[49]^[50] At the unit level, change of command ceremonies during Iraq and Afghanistan deployments adapted traditional procedures to austere forward-operating base environments, maintaining morale and operational focus amid combat. In Iraq, a 2008 change of command for Multi-National Force-Iraq at Camp Victory near Baghdad saw Gen. Raymond T. Odierno relieve Gen. David H. Petraeus, presided over by Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Adm. Mike Mullen, who emphasized the surge's successes and transition to Iraqi forces, covered extensively by defense media as a milestone in the drawdown. These forward ceremonies, often simplified due to security but retaining the color-passing ritual, reinforced unit cohesion during the 2000s conflicts, where over 2.7 million service members deployed across both theaters.^[51]

Other Countries

In France, military change of command ceremonies, known as remise de commandement, are formal traditions that emphasize continuity and discipline within the armed forces, often aligned with national commemorations such as Bastille Day since the late 19th century. The Bastille Day military parade, established in 1880 as a symbol of republican values and military prowess, has provided a backdrop for integrating command transitions, particularly in elite units like the Foreign Legion. For instance, in July 2021, coinciding with the Bastille Day period, change of command ceremonies occurred in six Foreign Legion regiments, underscoring the event's role in reinforcing national unity and leadership handover.^[52] In India, change of command ceremonies within the Indian Army have been notably incorporated into Republic Day observances since independence in 1947, blending the symbolic transfer of authority with the grandeur of the national parade that showcases military heritage and constitutional pride. These events highlight the evolution of post-colonial military structure, where handovers occur to affirm loyalty to the republic. A prominent example is the 2021 Republic Day ceremony for the Frontier Gajraj Corps in Tezpur, Assam, where Lieutenant General Shantanu Dayal relinquished command to Lieutenant General Ravin Khosla, marking a seamless transition during the holiday's festivities and parade at Rajpath.^[53] In Israel, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) change of command ceremonies for senior roles, including the Chief of Staff, in the 2010s often intersect with profound national themes of remembrance, particularly ties to Holocaust memorials that underscore the military's protective mandate. These handovers, conducted with solemn protocols at bases like Kirya in Tel Aviv, evoke historical resilience amid ongoing security challenges. Following the February 2015 transition when Lieutenant General Gadi Eisenkot assumed the role of Chief of Staff from Benny Gantz, the IDF General Staff convened a memorial meeting at Yad Vashem in April 2015, ahead of Holocaust Remembrance Day (Yom HaShoah), linking the leadership change to vows of preventing future atrocities.^[54]^[55] In Australia, change of command ceremonies for joint forces in the 21st century reflect the Australian Defence Force's (ADF) emphasis on integrated operations and shared sacrifice, frequently evoking ANZAC Day's spirit of mateship and endurance without direct overlap. These events, held at ceremonial parades in Canberra or major bases, prioritize operational readiness and historical reflection. A key 21st-century instance is the July 2024 handover of Chief of the Defence Force from General Angus J. Campbell to Admiral David Johnston, which highlighted themes of service and remembrance resonant with ANZAC commemorations, as noted in the outgoing commander's address on generational continuity.^[56]

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Jun 11, 2020 · Change of Command 2020 · In case you missed it! Here is a condensed video of The Old Guard's Change of Command Ceremony between incoming ...
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Video - JTF-NCR/USAMDW Change of Command - DVIDS
Jun 8, 2025 · Gen. Trevor Bredenkamp, relinquished command to U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Antoinette Gant. The hosts for the ceremony were 41st Chief of Staff of the ...
[49]
Remarks by the President at the "Change of Office" Chairman of the ...
Sep 30, 2011 · THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much. (Applause.) Secretary Panetta, thank you for your introduction and for your extraordinary leadership.Missing: command Pentagon examples
[50]
Trump participates in ceremony for new Joint Chiefs of Staff Chair ...
Sep 30, 2019 · Comments · "Saluting a Legacy: General Mark A. · Conversation with Mike Allen and General Mark Milley · WATCH LIVE: Senate Armed Services considers ...Missing: change command Pentagon presidential attendance examples<|separator|>
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Change of command ceremony [Image 26 of 30] - DVIDS
Oct 31, 2012 · Andrew Sandstrum speak after a change of command ceremony in Forward Operating Base Shank, Oct. 20, 2012, in Logar province, Afghanistan. ... FOB ...
[52]
File:Change of Command Ceremony in Baghdad DVIDS115808.jpg
Mullen traveled to Baghdad to be the presiding officer for the Multi-National Force - Iraq change of command. ... U.S. Navy Adm. Mike Mullen thanks airmen ...
[53]
2021 Bastille Day Military Parade | French Foreign Legion Information
Jul 15, 2021 · This Wednesday marked Bastille Day, the French National Day of the ... Foreign Legion: 2021 Change of Command took place in six regiments.
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Indian Army's Frontier Gajraj Corps' change of command on ...
Jan 28, 2021 · Indian Army's Frontier Gajraj Corps' change of command on Republic Day. The command of Indian Army's Frontier Gajraj Corps changed hands from ...
[55]
IDF General Staff holds meeting at Yad Vashem ahead of Holocaust ...
Apr 13, 2015 · Military generals took part in a memorial ceremony at the Yad Vashem Hall of Names, together with former President Shimon Peres.Missing: command 2010s
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Past Chiefs of Staff | IDF
There have been 21 Chiefs of Staff (not including the current Chief of Staff) in IDF history, each of whom served up to five years in the position.
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General Angus J Campbell Speech - Change of Command Ceremony
Jul 10, 2024 · The generation now entering the ADF is the best educated, connected, aware and engaged in our history.