 A change of command took place today at Craigens Resort in East Gall Lake. The ceremony was for a first sergeant who is retiring and for the new first sergeant who is taking his place. Reporter Rachel Johnson has that story. The change of command was held overlooking Gall Lake today for first sergeant Jason Crider's retirement and first sergeant Jason Bryant who is taking his place in the Brainerd Army Recruiting Company. It's a tradition for the army as the incoming first sergeant, takes control as the senior enlist advisor for the company and then I'm the outgoing first sergeant. A change of command ceremony is a military tradition that represents a formal transfer of authority and responsibility. It's kind of saying thank you to your outgoing first sergeant and welcome to the incoming first sergeant so it's a tradition that we like to do. First sergeant Crider is retiring after 24 years of service in the military. Feels good a little scary been in the army for the last 24 years so that's kind of what I've known for the last 24 years but I am excited looking forward to something new different chapter in my life. The change of command ceremony was attended by family and friends to support the sergeant retiring and to also welcome the soldier taking his place. I've always been proud of him he's a great man you know he's a great soldier but even more importantly he's a great husband and father. I think it was a fitting one for his final ceremony so it makes me sad and happy all at once. First sergeant Crider and first sergeant Bryant have served in the military for over 40 years combined and without it they say they would not be the same. The army has set my path of my life correct probably without the army who knows where I'd be I definitely wouldn't be where I'm in him now it it was able to really change my life. First sergeant Bryant and his family moved to the area from New York he's looking forward to his new position and their new life in the Brainerd community. His new position is actually a huge step for us as a family coming into a new area but it's a huge step in his career. So I'm excited a bit nervous probably an understatement but I'm really excited to come out here and and lead these soldiers and kind of see what their their professional goals are and kind of help them get there. Reporting from Brainerd, Rachel Johnson, Lakeland News. For more information on the Brainerd recruiting company you can find the story on our website at lptv.org slash news. If you enjoyed this segment of Lakeland news please consider making a tax deductible contribution to Lakeland PBS.