FORT KNOX, Ky. –
U.S. Army Recruiting Command welcomed a new deputy commanding officer during a ceremony here today.
Col. Patrick R. Michaelis is now the USAREC Deputy Commanding Officer – Operations.
The deputy commanding officer assists the commanding general in the training, maintenance, and sustainment of over 14,000 Soldiers and civilians in support of the Army and U.S. Army Reserves recruiting mission in the United States, its territories, and outside the Continental United States.
Michaelis most recently served as the Commander of Mission Command Element, Operation Atlantic Resolve in Poland.
He served as the 2nd Recruiting Brigade commander from 2015 to 2017.
“I am even more proud to once again be a part of the USAREC Team,” Michaelis said. “This is my fourth assignment here (at Fort Knox). In some ways, I’ve come full circle. It’s good to be home.”
In parting, outgoing Deputy Commanding General Brig. Gen. Kevin Vereen, who has been at USAREC since June 2017, told the team he has been honored to serve in a leadership role at USAREC .
He thanked the officers, non-commissioned officers and civilians for providing leadership, guidance and a job well done during some challenging times.
“As I will now look at the great things this command will do, from a different position and location. I know that USAREC will continue to meet the goals of our Army’s end strength,” Vereen said.
Maj. Gen. Frank M. Muth, commanding general of USAREC, hosted the ceremony.
“Brigadier General Promotable Kevin Vereen has shown me what a strong and effective deputy commanding general is all about,” Muth said. “He has a firm grasp of the command’s capabilities and he executes his duties with professionalism and integrity. Thank you for always adding to the effort. I look forward to seeing you in the halls of the Pentagon”
Vereen will serve as the commanding general for the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command in Quantico, Virginia