3-8 minutes typical

Change of Command Speech: Incoming Commander

Make a strong first impression with remarks that honor your predecessor, inspire confidence, and set the tone for your command.

Ceremony Order
Typical sequence of events
  1. 1Arrival of official party and posting of colors
  2. 2National Anthem and/or service song
  3. 3Invocation (if applicable)
  4. 4Opening remarks by presiding officer
  5. 5Reading of outgoing commander's orders
  6. 6Outgoing commander's remarks
  7. 7Passing of the colors/guidon to presiding officer
  8. 8Reading of incoming commander's orders (your orders)
  9. 9Passing of the colors/guidon to you
  10. 10Your remarks as incoming commander
  11. 11Closing remarks by presiding officer
  12. 12Dismissal and reception
Who to Thank
Key acknowledgments to include
  • Presiding officer for officiating
  • Outgoing commander (genuine praise for their leadership)
  • Senior enlisted leader (CSM, CMC, etc.) who you'll partner with
  • Unit members (brief, forward-looking acknowledgment)
  • Your family for their support
Family Recognition
Honoring your family's sacrifice

Briefly introduce your spouse and family. They are beginning this command journey with you. Keep it short—the focus today is transitioning command, and the outgoing commander has already recognized families extensively.

Tradition Moments
Ceremonial elements to be aware of
  • •Receiving the organizational colors/guidon (your moment of assuming command)
  • •First acknowledgment of the formation as their commander
  • •Recognition of the command team you will lead
Tips for Success
Keep it SHORT—5 minutes maximum. This is not your retirement speech.
Honor the outgoing commander genuinely (no faint praise)
Introduce yourself briefly—they'll get to know you through actions
Express confidence in the unit without overpromising
Commit to specific values (not specific policy changes)
Acknowledge the senior enlisted as your partner
Save detailed priorities for your first town hall or commander's call
End with energy—this is your introduction to the formation
Reference Sources

Protocol guidance is based on the following public military publications:

  • • AR 600-20: Army Command Policy
  • • FM 3-21.5: Drill and Ceremonies
  • • AFI 51-604: Appointment to and Assumption of Command
  • • OPNAVINST 1000.16L: Navy Regulations
  • • MCO 5060.20: Marine Corps Drill and Ceremonies Manual

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This service is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to the U.S. Department of Defense or any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces. Example speeches are fictional compositions created for reference purposes. Always coordinate with your unit's protocol office for official ceremony requirements.