WARREN, Mich. - Col. Robert Schumitz, outgoing Project Manager for the Stryker Brigade Combat Team, changed leadership with Dave Dopp, incoming PM, under the authority of Scott Davis, Program Executive Officer Ground Combat Systems, July 26.
After four years of stellar service, Schumitz was honored for his accomplishments in leading the Stryker team to success during a time when the nation was at war in Iraq and Afghanistan.
“There have been 11 (of 14 total) Stryker Brigade Combat Team deployments (during Schumitz’ tenure) and the Stryker systems have performed remarkably, saving countless lives,” Davis said. “This is a testament to Bob’s commitment to the Warfighter and professional, firm, and disciplined direction which has guided the Stryker program over the past four years.”
The Stryker formation has been the commanders' formation of choice for operations in theater. In response to a need to better protect Stryker Soldiers from the threat of mines and improvised explosive devices, the Stryker Double V-Hull effort emerged.
“One of Bob’s most significant accomplishments has been his stewardship of the Stryker Double V-Hull configuration, dramatically improving the Stryker’s ability to withstanding IED attacks,” Davis said. “Bob’s thoughtful and tenacious actions resulted in gaining approval from both the Army and OSD (Office of the Secretary of Defense), and his leadership resulted in an unprecedented production plan to have 150 DVH vehicles ready for fielding by the end of summer, 2011, just 14 months after program inception.”
A humble Schumitz attributed the “awe-inspiring” success of the Stryker program to the commitment and dedication of the Stryker team to the Stryker Soldier.
“I’ve just been fortunate enough to have been the leader,” Schumitz said. “It will be hard to leave this family even though I truly know that it is the right time for transition.”
Dopp has been employed within the federal service for more than 25 years and has a proven record of accomplishments preparing him for his new position.
“I am confident that under his (Dopp’s) leadership, the Stryker team will continue to perform remarkable feats,” Davis said. “Dave will lead the team into a modernization effort that will take the venerable Stryker into the next several decades.”
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