FORT INDIANTOWN GAP, Pa. –
Change-of-command ceremonies are commonplace in the U.S. military.
A recent change-of-command ceremony for Alpha Company, 2nd Battalion, 112th Infantry Regiment, 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team was a bit more unique than most others.
On April 28, Capt. Joseph P. Kerwin relinquished command of the company to his brother, Capt. John “Jack” R. Kerwin.
Additionally, the master of ceremonies for the ceremony, and a Soldier within the ranks of the 2-112th Infantry Regiment, was 1st Lt. Karolyn M. Kerwin, Joseph's and John's sister.
And, their brother, Cadet Samuel H. Kerwin of Bravo Co., 2-112th Infantry Regiment, gave the invocation at the ceremony.
Capt. Joseph Kerwin’s time as commander was highlighted by several state active-duty missions, to include time in Philadelphia during civil unrest, humanitarian missions during the height of the global pandemic, and time in Washington, D.C., during the 2021 Presidential Inauguration. It also included a rotation to the National Training Center in Fort Irwin Calif., which is considered one of the most challenging of all training venues.
“It has been an honor to serve with some of the finest Soldiers in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard," Capt. Joseph Kerwin said. "I will always treasure my time as commander of 'Arrow' Company.”
Capt. John Kerwin takes command of Alpha Company as Task Force Paxton (2-112th Infantry Regiment) is preparing for a potential upcoming mobilization.
Regardless of the unique situation, Lt. Col Eric B. Ponzek, commander of the 2-112th Infantry Regiment, said Capt. John Kerwin was the right choice to be commander.
”He is ready to lead, the right choice for the job and the best prepared Soldier to take command as A/Co. commander,” said Ponzek.