DUGWAY PROVING GROUND, Utah – Colonel Brian A. Sansom officially assumed command of Dugway Proving Ground (DPG) on Wednesday, July 16, in a traditional Army change of command ceremony. SES II Mr. James Amato, the executive technical director/deputy to the Commander, U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command (ATEC) was the presiding official for the transition from Colonel James P. Harwell to Colonel Brian A. Sansom.
Colonel Harwell Reflects on His Legacy
Colonel Harwell, who led DPG since July 2023, will transition to a new role as a Special Assistant to the Director of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). In his farewell remarks, he extended gratitude to the guests, friends, family, the Canyon Winds band from the Utah National Guard, and especially the U.S. Army Dugway Combined Civilian Workforce. He lauded the civilian employees, stating, “This group of Department of the Army civilians, standing guard over the unit, Army and National Guard, is truly representative of the workforce here at DPG.”
He reflected on his two years at Dugway, emphasizing the significant improvements in test efficiency and effectiveness achieved by the test force. Colonel Harwell also highlighted the "opportunity to execute tactical control of the garrison to ensure unity of effect across the mission and support force" and expressed pride in working alongside the garrison team. On a personal note, he shared how he and his family, after living in over 30 houses, finally found a true "home" at Dugway. He concluded his speech by thanking the workforce and his family once more, signing off with “granite 6 signing off the net.”
Colonel Sansom's Vision for DPG's Future
Colonel Sansom began his address by thanking everyone who attended and contributed to the event's success, assuring them their efforts would be recognized. He acknowledged family and friends who couldn't be present and thanked his wife and son who have joined him at Dugway. He also thanked Colonel Harwell and his wife for their warm welcome. "You are leaving behind a strong legacy built on your commitment to resilience to community, and we wish you all the best as you head out east," Colonel Sansom stated. "I look forward to building upon that foundation and continued the momentum you’ve carried forward.”
He underscored DPG’s crucial role in the nation’s defense as a "fighting force and testing ground." Colonel Sansom expressed his eagerness to connect with as many people as possible during his command. He concluded by expressing his honor to lead DPG and pledged to work diligently to ensure it remains an outstanding place to work, live, and play.
The ceremony concluded with attendees joining in the singing of the Chemical Corps Song and the Army Song, followed by Command Sergeant Major Jessica Cho leading the color guard off the parade field.
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