Story and photo by Dawn Arden
Public Affairs Office

FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. (Aug. 23, 2018) — Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Weatherholt relinquished responsibility of the 14th Military Police Brigade to Command Sgt. Maj. Gregory Kleinholz in a ceremony held Aug. 16 in Swift Gym.

Col. Curtis Schroeder, brigade commander, said Weatherholt has been an outstanding battle buddy, confidant and friend to him.

“First and foremost, your commitment to excellence is like no other NCO I have ever worked alongside in my military career,” Schroeder said. “I have appreciated your attitude every day — every single day. I think what has given you the gift of service and success in the military is largely due to your attitude. Not once did you waver as my battle buddy.”

He added, “Command Sgt. Maj. Weatherholt, mission accomplished.”

Weatherholt said being able to meet and talk with Soldiers arriving for training was one of his favorite things, and turning over the colors as one of the hardest.

“The things that we have done on this installation that have affected the entire Army are incredible and I’m really honored to have been a part of what you have accomplished over the last 22 months,” Weatherholt said. “I want to say thank you to everybody who has been a part of that because that’s what it’s all about.”

Kleinholz, who has held several roles within the brigade through the years, said he’s glad to be back at Fort Leonard Wood.

“It’s such an honor for me to serve as the next 14th MP Brigade command sergeant major — following in the footsteps of some great noncommissioned officers who served our regiment proudly and with distinction,” Kleinholz said. “I will serve all Soldiers with pride and devotion to duty in order to preserve the legacy of these former Soldiers, as well as the great accomplishments of all the Soldiers of the 14th MP Brigade over the years.”

Command Sgt. Maj. Gregory Kleinholz, left, accepts the 14th MP Bde. colors from Col. Curtis Schroeder, brigade commander, signifying his taking responsibility of the brigade during a ceremony held Aug. 16 in Swift Gym.