1-178th Infantry Welcomes New Commander

Lt. Col. John A. Christel assumed command of 1st Battalion, 178th Infantry Regiment from Lt. Col. Andrew V. Salmo during a change of command ceremony at General Jones Armory, in Chicago, Illinois, Dec. 6, 2025. A change of command ceremony is a time-honored military tradition that symbolizes the transfer of authority and responsibility from the outgoing commander to the incoming commander. This transition ensures the continuity and effectiveness of the unit's mission, operations and commitment to service. The 1-178th Infantry Battalion deployed to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility under the command of Lt. Col. Salmo, returning in April. The battalion received a Meritorious Unit Commendation for executing a dynamic mission in eight countries across the Arabian Peninsula. "It's bittersweet, I love being their commander," Salmo said. "The Soldiers here did a great job. They have high standards of discipline, a lot of professionalism, and so I feel proud of everything that they've done in the last two years and especially during the deployment." Lt. Col. John A. Christel, who previously served as the executive officer of the 244th Digital Liaison Detachment expressed his enthusiasm for the new role. "It's a prestigious unit that has accomplished great things. I'm very humbled and excited to be put in this position." said Christel. The 1-178th has a rich history dating back to 1878 which includes participation in The Spanish American War, World War I, World War II, and the Global War on Terrorism. It traces it's lineage to the "Fighting" 8th Infantry Regiment, an all African-American unit that was also based in Chicago's southside. The Victory Monument in the Bronzeville neighborhood of Chicago was erected in honor of the 8th Infantry's service in World War I. "I hope to build upon the success that they've already accomplished, represent the state of Illinois well, represent the Illinois National Guard and fulfill the guidance that the brigade gives me," Christel said. "I will work as hard as I can to make sure we are successful. I will care for the Soldiers, and I will put all my effort into it." 1st Battalion, 178th Infantry Regiment is part of the National Guard's 33rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team with more than 3,500 Soldiers. The 33rd IBCT is the largest brigade in the Illinois Army National Guard and has units with lineage dating as far back as the Black Hawk War. The Illinois Army National Guard stands ready to respond to emergencies, crises, and conflicts within its community and around the world.