Col. Curtis Schroeder returned to Fort Leonard Wood to assume the next step of leadership in the 14th Military Police Brigade during a change-of-command ceremony held Friday in Swift Gym.
Schroeder, who previously served as a company commander and battalion commander within the brigade, replaced Col. Niave Knell as brigade commander.
"You have history here, and your credentials make you a perfect fit. I am honored to see you return," said Brig. Gen. Kevin Vereen, U.S. Army Military Police School commandant.
Vereen welcomed Schroeder and his Family back to Fort Leonard Wood, the brigade and the home of the regiment.
"Good luck to you as you take on the challenges that lie ahead," Vereen said. "You are the right leader for this critical time in our Army."
Schroeder thanked Vereen, Knell and the Soldiers in the regiment who have helped forge the way forward for the brigade, adding he is humbled to be the new brigade commander.
Vereen thanked Knell for her leadership over the past two years, calling her an "outstanding commander."
"Col. Niave Knell, over the last two years, has taken this brigade to even higher heights. I have witnessed her efforts as she has led this brigade," Vereen said, "taking America's best and brightest, those who want to silently serve their country in a time of conflict, and transformed them as Soldiers."
"Job well done," Vereen added. "You have completed your mission here at the 14th Military Police Brigade."
Knell admitted that relinquishing command was difficult, but knowing who was taking over made it easier.
"I know (14th MP Bde.) will be able to continue to do great things under your leadership," she said to Schroeder.
Schroeder was commissioned as a second lieutenant through a Reserve Officer Training Corps program at Central Washington University.
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