5-12 minutes typical

Change of Command Speech: Outgoing Commander

Deliver a memorable farewell address that honors your unit, thanks your team, and sets up your successor for success.

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 (senior commander)
  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
  9. 9Passing of the colors/guidon to incoming commander
  10. 10Incoming commander's remarks
  11. 11Closing remarks by presiding officer
  12. 12Dismissal and reception
Who to Thank
Key acknowledgments to include
  • Presiding officer for officiating
  • Subordinate commanders and key staff
  • Senior enlisted advisor (CSM, CMC, etc.)
  • Unit members across all ranks
  • Supporting units and agencies
  • Family members, especially spouse
  • Incoming commander (brief, positive handoff)
Family Recognition
Honoring your family's sacrifice

Command is a family endeavor. Your spouse often led the Family Readiness Group, supported unit families during deployments, and managed everything at home. Acknowledge this sacrifice prominently—command cannot succeed without family support.

Tradition Moments
Ceremonial elements to be aware of
  • •Passing of the organizational colors/guidon (symbolizes transfer of authority)
  • •Outgoing commander receives unit award or gift
  • •Acknowledgment of command sergeant major/senior enlisted
  • •Final salute to the formation as commander
Tips for Success
Keep it under 10 minutes—multiple speakers share the stage
Focus on the unit's accomplishments, not personal achievements
Thank people by name when possible
Speak highly of your successor—this is their introduction
Avoid settling scores or airing grievances
Practice your remarks—emotions may be high
Coordinate with your command sergeant major/chief on content
Have notes but try to deliver from the heart
End on a forward-looking, positive note for the unit
Reference Sources

Protocol guidance is based on the following public military publications:

  • • AR 600-20: Army Command Policy (para 2-1)
  • • FM 3-21.5: Drill and Ceremonies
  • • AFI 51-604: Appointment to and Assumption of Command
  • • OPNAVINST 1000.16L: Navy Regulations - Change of Command
  • • MCO 5060.20: Marine Corps Drill and Ceremonies Manual

Ready to Create Your Speech?

Answer a few questions about your service and we'll generate a personalized, protocol-accurate speech tailored to your ceremony.

Preview free • Full unlock $19

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.