On October 25, 2024, Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) was the site of a significant military tradition—the Change of Command Ceremony for America’s First Corps. This event marked the transition of leadership from Lt. Gen. Xavier T. Brunson to Lt. Gen. Matthew W. McFarlane. NVC Past Commanders Michael Yaguchi and Allen Nakamoto and current NVC Commander Dale Watanabe attended the ceremony representing the Nisei Veterans Committee.
Lt. Gen. Brunson, who had commanded America’s First Corps since October 14, 2021, was celebrated for his exemplary leadership and strategic vision. During his tenure, he enhanced the readiness of the Corps and strengthened JBLM’s role as a power projection platform for the Indo-Pacific region. His efforts in championing the Army’s modernization initiatives, particularly in multi-domain operations and joint force integration, were highly praised. Brunson’s leadership was marked by a strong commitment to the welfare of soldiers and their families, as well as the development of leaders at all levels. His next assignment will be as the commander of U.S. Forces Korea.
Lt. Gen. Brunson began his relationship with NVC during his command of 7th Infantry
Division before transitioning to command America’s First Corp. He asked NVC to continue the relationship with First Corps and 7th ID through the new commander.
The ceremony was attended by soldiers of America’s First Corps, family members, distinguished guests, and friends. The divisional colors were assembled in formation beside major subordinate commands and JBLM tenant units. Gen. Charles A. Flynn, Commander of the United States Army-Pacific, presided over the ceremony as the reviewing officer.
In his outgoing speech, Lt. Gen. Brunson expressed his gratitude to those he served alongside, his family and friends, and God. He encouraged everyone to maintain the connections and relationships built within and around the Corps, to embody the Army values, and to treat each other with dignity and respect.
Lt. Gen. McFarlane, the new commander, addressed the audience with enthusiasm, expressing his eagerness to lead the soldiers of America’s First Corps. He wished Lt. Gen. Brunson success in his new role in South Korea. Lt. Gen. McFarlane echoed his predecessor’s sentiment and commitment to the NVC contingent at the reception after the ceremony. He had visited the NVC as First Corp’s Deputy Commander earlier this year as First Corps Change of Command at Joint Base Lewis McChord as part of the Japan-U.S. Military Program (JUMP) event organized by the Japan-America Society of the State of Washington partnering with the NVC.
The Change of Command Ceremony is a time-honored military tradition that symbolizes the transfer of responsibility, authority, and accountability from one leader to another. It reinforces the continuity of leadership and the values that the Corps upholds.
[America’s First Corps welcomes Lt. Gen. Matthew W. McFarlane as incoming commander: https://www.army.mil/article/280877/americas_first_corps_welcomes_lt_gen_matthew_w_mcfarlane_as_incoing_commander ]
Note: LTG (P) Brunson, The P stands for Promotable meaning he has been selected for the next higher rank. LTC (P) would mean a lieutenant colonel has been selected for colonel.
