CHATHAM, IL (08/13/2015)(readMedia)-- The gymnasium at Glenwood High School in Chatham, Illinois was the backdrop for a ceremony filled with tradition as the Illinois National Guard bid farewell to the outgoing Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. Daniel M. Krumrei of Springfield, Illinois and welcomed the new Adjutant General, Brig. Gen. Richard J. Hayes, Jr., of Chatham, Illinois August 9, 2015.
The change of command ceremony is a time-honored military tradition which signifies the passing of a unit's colors and the transfer of command authority from one commander to another. The ceremony also pays homage to the outgoing commander while, at the same time, demonstrates loyalty to the incoming commander.
Soldiers and Airmen, friends, family, and distinguished guests joined to participate in the event. Among the distinguished guests was Illinois' Lt. Gov. Evelyn Sanguinetti who presided over the event.
Sanguinetti bid a fond farewell to Krumrei.
"General Krumrei has devoted his life, his energy, his faith, and his force of courage and distinguished leadership to our military, our state, and our country," said Sanguinetti. "As lieutenant governor of the state of Illinois, I say thank you, gracias. Illinois is forever grateful to you and your family for your service and sacrifice."
Sanguinetti went on to welcome Hayes into his new position as Adjutant General.
"From a personal standpoint, I noticed right from the get-go his incredible humility and, at the same time, his immense leadership skills," she said. "Due to his strategic vision, his vast strategic knowledge, and proven judgement, Governor Rauner and I are confident General Hayes is the right person in command at a time of change and challenge in the state."
Following the lieutenant governor, Krumrei thanked everyone who he said gave him opportunities to succeed in his career.
"I thank all off the general officers, the staff, the commanders, the NCOs, the Soldiers, and the Airmen for all of your support over these many years," said Krumrei.
Krumrei also thanked Hayes' mother for raising the "the right man" for the job.
"He's a good boy," said Krumrei. "You done good; and as my first act as a retired adjutant general, on behalf of the Illinois National Guard, I would like to give you my coin. Thank you."
Following his speech, Krumrei, Hayes, Sanguinetti, Illinois' Land Component Command Sergeant Major, Command Sgt. Maj. Mark Bowman of Plainfield, Illinois and Illinois' Air National Guard Command Chief Master Sergeant, Chief Master Sgt. John Jordan conducted the passing of the colors.
After receiving the colors, Hayes addressed the attendees.
"Humbled and honored beyond all belief I guess that's how I would categorize this," said Hayes. "I couldn't be here without all of you here, and all of the Soldiers, Airmen, NCOs, and officers that have supported me."
Hayes said his vision for the Illinois National Guard to be a relevant, integrated, community-based joint force; always ready and always there to protect our state, defend our homeland, and fight our nation's wars when called upon.
Hayes also took a unique opportunity to present his challenge coin to Krumrei as a symbol of gratitude.
"This rarely happens in the military, where you actually get to coin your boss," said Hayes. "I haven't ever been able to coin a two-star, so I'm going to take advantage of it today. Thank you for your service to the state and to the Guard, general Krumrei."
