U.S. Army Garrison-Fort Hood welcomes new senior enlisted advisor

FORT HOOD, Texas - U.S. Army Garrison-Fort Hood held a change of responsibility Oct. 16 at III Armored Corps Headquarters, passing responsibility from Command Sgt. Maj. Loyd Rhoades to Command Sgt. Maj. Kristopher Tate.

Col. Mark McClellan, U.S. Army Garrison-Fort Hood commander, explained the garrison command sergeant major serves over 110,000 individuals on post, from Soldiers to civilian employees to families, along with supporting retirees in the area.

"The garrison has a tremendous mission, one defined entirely by serving people, our Soldiers, families, DA civilians and retirees," he said. "For the past two years, we have been truly blessed to have Sergeant Major Loyd Rhoades, as our command sergeant major. Sergeant Major Rhoades is the exact type of leader that makes you excited to come to work and serve every single day. Sergeant Major Rhoades has left an indelible mark on this installation."

Rhoades has had a hand in numerous programs and events, including Fight Night, Phantom Fury and mentoring for the Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers program.

"A little more than two years ago, I stood here, and I spoke about feeling lost somewhere on Legends Way," Rhoades said to the audience. "And as I try to navigate the responsibilities of the garrison command sergeant major and the responsibilities it (the role) holds, I asked you to help me, and you kept me grounded, and you made sure you steered me to the right direction.

"Everyone, the garrison shares one purpose: to support and sustain the highest possible quality of life for our Soldiers and families," he added. "That commitment guided me through my time in this position. I never want a Soldier to suffer in silence, and I want every family to know they are supported and cared for. We take care of one another well, but together, we are at our best when we take care of the installation."

Following the ceremony, Rhoades retired after 27 years in service.

Tate takes responsibility after serving as the battalion command sergeant major for 3rd Battalion, 3rd Brigade Engineer Battalion, 177th Armored Brigade, First Army, Camp Shelby, Mississippi.

Tate is no stranger to Fort Hood, having served in several units across III Armored Corps, including 36th Engineer Brigade and 3rd Cavalry Regiment.

"A combat engineer, a proven multi-time battalion command sergeant major and a dedicated scholar currently pursuing his doctorate," McClellan said, "Sergeant Major Tate brings a wealth of tactical, operational and institutional wisdom to our garrison.

"Bringing a leader of Sergeant Major Tate's proven experience and depth down back into this formation ensures seamless continuity for our post," he added. "You inherit an outstanding team of civilians and Soldiers who are dedicated to the mission and ready for your leadership. I look forward to commanding alongside you as we write the next chapter for this garrison."

Tate thanked everyone for coming and remarked on his views about his new role.

"For me, this assignment is more than just another chapter in my Army career," he expressed. "Growing up in Texas and spending about 14 years in the military here at The Great Place, standing here today as the garrison command sergeant major truly feels like coming home."

He thanked Rhoades for his leadership and impact on the community, then turned to his vision for the future.

"As we move forward, my commitment is simple: to listen, learn, lead and work alongside each of you," Tate said. "Our responsibility is to take care of the Soldiers, families and civilians who call Fort Hood home while ensuring the installation remains ready to support the Army's mission. 
I'm honored to be a part of the team, humbled by the opportunity to serve and I'm ready to get to work."