DRAWSKO POMORSKIE, Poland – In a ceremony marked by tradition and unity, U.S. Army Col. Adam Latham, commander of the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, transferred authority to Col. Matthew Kelley, commander of 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, at Drawsko Pomorskie Combat Training Center, August 5, 2025.
The transfer of authority ceremony signified the formal handover of mission responsibilities from 3rd ABCT "Bulldog Brigade", 1st AD, to 1st ABCT "Devil Brigade", 1st ID.
This pivotal transition ensured the continuity of the U.S. Army’s rotational presence in Poland, reinforcing America’s steadfast commitment to NATO allies and security in the region.
Reflecting on the deployment, Latham emphasized the growth and resilience the brigade developed throughout its time in Eastern Europe.
“This deployment has been a fantastic experience," said Latham. "We’ve had the opportunity to build a tremendous amount of readiness, and while challenging, our experiences have been rich with opportunity. 'Bulldog’ is a better brigade having executed this deployment, and we look forward to returning home to our families and loved ones. We wish ‘Devil’ all the best as they resume responsibility of this mission."
He also underscored the brigade’s sharpened combat effectiveness, noting how the deployment forged stronger cohesion, enhanced interoperability with NATO allies, and significantly improved the unit’s overall readiness for future operations.
The 1st ABCT, 1st ID will continue joint training operations, building on the foundation laid by their predecessors and advancing the shared objectives of security and stability across Eastern Europe.
During the transfer of authority ceremony, Kelley extended his appreciation to the "Bulldog Brigade" for their unwavering support throughout the relief-in-place process.
“We are truly grateful for all the 'Bulldog Brigade' has done to receive us here in Poland, set us on the right path, and enable our training," said Kelley. "On behalf of the entire 'Devil Brigade', we thank the Bulldogs for their selfless service and wish them safe travels and well-earned rest. With the transition today, the ‘Devils’ are ready to fight to train and drive maintenance readiness while strengthening our alliance and assuring our partners across this region.”
Kelley highlighted the importance of continuity, partnership, and preparedness as the Devil Brigade assumed responsibility for operations in support of regional stability and NATO objectives.
The 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division will continue to support NATO allies, deter adversary aggression and train with host-nation forces to increase individual and collective readiness.
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