Col. Richard Nieberding relinquishes command of SSI, retires

Fort Jackson honored Col. Richard Nieberding, the Soldier Support Institute commander, on the "proud and memorable day" of his retirement.

Nieberding relinquished command of the SSI to Col. John D. McShane before officially retiring after 30 years of service.

Maj. Gen. Darrel K. Williams, commander of the U.S. Army Combined Arms Support Command, said while the day was memorable for Nieberding, he thanked McShane for temporarily taking over the SSI reins.

McShane was the SSI's deputy commander before assuming command.

"Nothing is more important to supporting this Army than providing trained and ready Soldiers and leaders to the combatant commanders throughout the world," Williams said as he lauded Nieberding's successes in training combat support Soldiers. "American Soldiers are the best equipped, best trained, and best led Soldiers in the entire world.

"Part of the reason for that is the outstanding support training done right here at the Soldier Support Institute."

SSI trains Soldiers in adjutant general, finance, and other support military occupational specialties.

In his farewell remarks, Nieberding acknowledged how important SSI is to the Army.

"This group of Soldiers, (non-commissioned officers), officers and civilians do so much to build readiness of our Army," he said. The AG school is working to build more capacity for the entire Army, while the Finance School trains professional financial management leaders, and the NCO Academy ensures the AG Corps is trained and competent, he added.

Nieberding added he was eternally grateful for everyone he met who taught him something and mentored him throughout his career.