Brig. Gen. Michel M. Russell Sr., the only non-transporter to hold the positions, handed over his duties during a relinquishment of command ceremony Monday at Wylie Hall. His tenure began June 4, 2015.
Maj. Gen. Darrell K. Williams, CASCOM and Fort Lee commanding general, presided over the occasion. Col. Steven M. George, who participated in the ceremony, will serve as acting commandant.
Russell's replacement is Brig. Gen. Jeffrey W. Drushal, currently the assistant chief of staff, J-4, U.S. Forces Korea. He is scheduled to arrive sometime next month.
Williams, who said he first met Russell in Afghanistan more than a decade ago, lauded the outgoing logistician as a leader who strives for and achieves excellence and listed a number of strategic initiatives that were accomplished on Russell's watch.
"You leave a proud legacy," he said. "You have delivered for the Army, the Transportation Corps and the Soldiers under your lead each and every day."
The commanding general also made mention of Russell's work on training-related issues.
"As a charismatic, knowledgeable and dynamic leader," said Williams, "you've ensured the Transportation School provided Soldiers trained to the right standard and that the school is postured for success for many, many years to come."
Russell, who is scheduled to replace Drushal in South Korea, spent most of his speech thanking those who supported him. He started with retired Gen. William G.T. Tuttle Jr., the former commanding general, Army Materiel Command.
"He gave me very succinct guidance, offered me his opinion - no directives, no demands and no commands - and gave me his support," said Russell in reference to a meeting he had with Tuttle at the start of his tenure.
Tuttle sat in the audience as an unexpected guest, added Russell. "That goes to show you what Gen. Tuttle has meant for myself, my family, the corps and the logistics-sustainment community."
Russell made special mention of his wife, Sieglinde, and noted she foundational to his well-being and success.
"If you have ever seen her frown or not greet you with a huge smile, a robust laugh and definitely a hug, then please let me know because she is why I never have a bad day," he said.
Finally, Russell said George, who was seated with his wife, Sharon, is more than capable of handling the reigns of responsibility.
"They are well-qualified to handle the upcoming rigors of this command as well as keeping our strategic organization and accessions efforts on track," he said.
George was formerly the director, TRADOC Capabilities Manager for Transportation, CASCOM.
The Transportation Corps, one of the smallest in the Army, is responsible for moving personnel and materiel via truck, rail, air and sea. It's headquartered at Fort Lee but trains Soldiers at a number of locations to include Joint Base Langley-Eustis and Fort Leonard Wood, Mo.
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