Matt Sheehan
Peoria, Ill - From one commander to the next. Lieutenant Commander Gregory Siler, a strongly revered naval commander, is passing the torch to Lieutenant Commander Bryan Kemmitz.
"Bryan I can tell you one thing for sure, that I am fully confident in this command that I'm about to turn over to you. It's personnel, facility, and everything."
Commander Kemmitz credits his wife and children for being his greatest supporters.
"To my wife Emily, and my three sons, Benjamin, Nathan, and Grant. You are my foundation, my bedrock. You continue to provide me love and support throughout my career."
Kemmitz promises to be a leader to his fellow sailors and reminds them that they will be some of the greatest soldiers in the entire Navy.
"My goal is to ensure that we are the most well-prepared, trained, and resilient sailors the Navy Reserve has to offer. I will need your support, as I am ready to help and support you."
Congressman Darin LaHood was the keynote speaker at the ceremony and says Commander Siler is a top-tier soldier that will be missed.
"Lieutenant Commander Siler has exemplified his patriotism in his outstanding career beginning with the United States Naval Academy, receiving his commission in 2001 before completing flight training a year later. He's been deployed to all reaches of the globe."
