Passing The Torch: Lt. Gen. Costanza Takes Command of Victory Corps

POZNAN, Poland - On April 8, 2024, Lt. Gen. John Kolasheski officially transferred the leadership of V Corps to Lt. Gen. Charles Costanza during a change of command ceremony held in Poznan, Poland. The ceremony not only symbolized the continuity of leadership within V Corps but also highlighted the historic significance of the unit's role in shaping European security for about a century.

Established in 1918, V Corps has stood as a steadfast pillar of American military presence in Europe, playing pivotal roles in both World War I and II, including the historic invasion of Normandy during D-Day. Throughout the Cold War era, V Corps remained instrumental in upholding the cause of freedom across the continent.

The reactivation of V Corps in 2020 under the leadership of Kolasheski marked a tangible reaffirmation of the United States' commitment to NATO and its European allies. Since its reactivation, V Corps has undergone rigorous training and exercises, cementing its position as a mission-ready force capable of undertaking complex combat operations in collaboration with allied and partner nations.

“Victory Corps was purpose-built for this mission, and has not and will not waver,” reiterated Kolasheski during his change of command speech.

Under Kolasheski's leadership, V Corps underwent a series of intensive exercises, including Warfighter Exercise 22-1, which demonstrated the unit's proficiency in commanding large-scale combat operations in a multinational environment. This exercise underscored V Corps' unity, mobility, and diversity, showcasing its ability to deploy and engage effectively across vast distances. The operational readiness of V Corps was officially affirmed by U.S. Army Forces Command on Nov. 3, 2021, with the declaration of full operational capability. During Kolasheski’s change of command speech, he reiterated the success of these exercises and operations.

“To those who joined us during warfighter exercises, command post exercises… I simply want to say thank you,” said Kolasheski. “You are friends for life.”

March 8, 2023, marked another significant milestone for V Corps with the arrival of the first permanently assigned U.S. Army Soldiers to Poland, ushering in a new era of stability and partnership-building with host nations.

“I hand over this corps with pride, believing that our service together has made a positive difference to secure the peace in Europe,” said Kolasheski.

The host of the change of command ceremony was Gen. Darryl Williams, commanding general of U.S. Army Europe and Africa (USAREUR-AF). Williams directed the changing of the colors, receiving the flag from Kolasheski and passing it to Costanza. By doing so, it signified that USAREUR-AF is fully in support of the new change in command.

“John brought V Corps back to Europe!” Williams declared. “John’s strategic timing and personal commitment ensured the corps met urgent operational needs in Europe, achieving full certification within a year of activation.”

Now, as V Corps transitions leadership to Costanza, the unit enters a new chapter with a renewed sense of purpose. Drawing on his experience as the former commander of 3rd Infantry Division, Costanza is poised to build upon the legacy of victory established by his predecessors.

“Poland is now my new home,” declared Costanza during his speech. “I look forward to learning with you, training with you, and if required, fighting alongside you as we once did in World War II.”

Williams expressed confidence in Costanza's ability to lead V Corps into the future, emphasizing his extensive time in command with decades of experience in operations.

“[Costanza’s] appointment comes at a pivotal moment as we transition to NATO regional plans,” said Williams. “We have complete faith in your ability to lead V Corps with distinction and honor.”