FORT KNOX, Ky –
Brig. Gen. Sara Dudley alongside Command Sgt. Maj. Danny Basham assumed command and responsibility of U.S. Army Recruiting Division in a ceremony at Waybur Theater, Fort Knox, Kentucky today.
In their roles at USARD, Dudley and Basham will lead transformation in the Army as USARD generates the foundation for the Army of 2040 by finding the best and brightest to fuel the future of the Army.
Both Dudley and Basham bring a wealth of operational and recruiting experience.
Dudley, a native of Indianapolis joined the recruiting enterprise in 2024 as the U.S. Army Recruiting Command deputy commanding general – operations. During her time as the DCG-O, Dudley led critical efforts in every aspect of recruiting, from applicant waivers to unit standards and discipline.
“There is truly no one better for this job,” said Lt. Gen Johnny Davis, commanding general, U.S. Army Recruiting Command.
He went on to express his gratitude for the knowledge and wisdom Dudley has brought to the command and credited her for continually reminding him that “we can’t always aim to be just efficient as efficient doesn’t always mean effective,” he said.
It is this mindset that he said has helped the command identify where we are and where we need to go. As she steps into this role she brings critical understanding of this organization, challenges we experience and the momentum we’ve built, Davis added.
Basham hails from Hillsboro, Missouri and is the former USAREC senior recruiting adviser and has served in the Army for more than 24 years. Basham has been recruiting since 2005 and has served at every leadership level in the command. He leaves his position as the top recruiting adviser to join Dudley’s side as the top enlisted adviser of USARD.
“He has been a critical member of this team as we navigate this historical transformation, said Davis. “His understanding of recruiting mission and the challenges it presents to the Recruiters on the ground make him the best person to take on this role.”
Both Dudley and Basham said they are honored to take on their new roles.
“We are looking forward to continuing to work with the command’s stellar Recruiters, all of our Soldiers and civilians as we lead transformation," said Dudley. "Without a doubt we are leading transformation. Without us, (the Army) cannot transform. We will generate the foundation of what the Army needs for 2040.”
This ceremony followed the Aug. 8 transition ceremony, welcoming a new deputy commanding general and deputy commanding officer. The occasion hailed Brig. Gen. Charlone Stallworth as the new USARD deputy commanding general - operations, and Col. Wilkem Mollfulleda as the deputy commanding officer - support.
Davis will formally take command of USAREC in October. These transformations mark a significant milestone in the Army’s efforts to restructure and strengthen the force generation enterprise under a newly-designated three-star command.