Tucker Takes Charge As New First Army Commander

By Mr. Tony Lopez (First Army)August 23, 2013

Tucker Takes Charge As New First Army Commander
1 / 5 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Lt. Gen. Michael S. Tucker receives the First Army colors from Gen. Daniel Allyn, U.S. Army Forces Command commander, which recognized Tucker as the First Army commander during a Assumption of Command ceremony held Aug 23 at the Rock Island Arsenal's... (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL
Tucker Takes Charge As New First Army Commander
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Tucker Takes Charge As New First Army Commander
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Tucker Takes Charge As New First Army Commander
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Tucker Takes Charge As New First Army Commander
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ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL, Ill. -- Lt. Gen. Michael S. Tucker was officially recognized as the commander of First Army in an Assumption of Command ceremony held at Memorial Park here today.

"I am truly humbled and greatly honored to assume command of First Army, which is the Army's premier provider of Reserve Component training support," said Tucker. "It is with great pride that I stand before you. I am ready to contribute to the historic legacy of this magnificent organization."

Following Senate confirmation, Tucker was promoted to his current rank during a ceremony hosted in the Pentagon by Army Chief of Staff Gen. Raymond T. Odierno Aug 2. The same day, he assumed command of First Army, which mobilizes, trains, validates, deploys and demobilizes all Army National Guard and U.S. Army Reserve forces throughout the continental United States, providing trained and ready forces for diverse missions worldwide.

"As our Army transitions away from combat operations to face an uncertain future, our training strategy remains the same," Tucker added. "First Army prepares Reserve Component Forces to meet any future challenges from potential adversaries of America.

Tucker has served more than 34 years in various Army command and staff positions. His most recent assignment was as the assistant deputy chief of staff for Army Operations, Plans and Training at the Pentagon. His previous duties include commander of the 2nd Infantry Division in Korea and overseas combat deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq in support of Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom.

"Lt. Gen. Tucker is a splendid Soldier, an inspired leader, and a courageous warrior," said Gen. Daniel B. Allyn, commanding general of U.S. Forces Command and the host of the assumption ceremony. "Mike is both a superb trainer and an expert in caring for our soldiers. He brings a wealth of experience and proven leadership to First Army. He is a combat-proven leader with tremendous experience."

Tucker and his wife Teresa hail from Charlotte, North Carolina and have three children and four grandchildren. Tucker said they are pleased to join the Quad Cities community.

"The Rock Island Arsenal and the Quad Cities are such great places and your exceptional hospitality reflects the best of the Midwestern spirit and ethos," Tucker concluded. "Thank you for welcoming us to the Arsenal and Quad Cities area. I sincerely look forward to continuing the partnerships forged with our local communities and with our Arsenal teammates."

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