189th Infantry Brigade

Soldiers from Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC), 189th Infantry Brigade, participated in an alternative fitness assessment this morning to evaluate the physical demands associated with the Army’s upcoming Combat Field Test (CFT) for combat military occupational specialties.

The event challenged Soldiers through a series of physically demanding tasks that emphasized strength, endurance, agility, and overall combat readiness. As the Army continues to refine and implement standards that reflect the realities of today’s operational environment, HHC Soldiers embraced the opportunity to test their capabilities and provide valuable feedback on the evolving assessment.

📸 Staff Sgt. Ebony Washington/ 189th Infantry Brigade Public Affairs

First Army | First Army Division East | Joint Base Lewis-McChord

Today, Sgt. 1st Class Lowell Harold from
the 189th Infantry Brigade graduated from the Master Leader Course (MLC) at the Noncommissioned Officer Academy on Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wa.

The Master Leader Course prepares senior noncommissioned officers for increased leadership responsibilities, strengthening their ability to lead Soldiers, develop teams, and contribute to mission success at higher levels of responsibility.

This accomplishment reflects Sgt. 1st Class Harold’s dedication to professional development and commitment to serving Soldiers and the Army. Congratulations on this significant milestone, and best wishes as you continue to lead and mentor the next generation of leaders.

📸 Staff Sgt. Ebony Washington/ 189th Infantry Brigade Public Affairs

First Army | First Army Division East | Joint Base Lewis-McChord |

🎖️ Honoring the Change of Command – 3-364th Battalion, 189th Infantry Brigade 🎖️

Today, Lt. Col. Gregory Wynn relinquished command of the 3rd Battalion, 364th Regiment, during a Change of Command Ceremony on Watkins Field, passing the battalion colors to Lt. Col. Anthony Huebner.

The ceremony marked the completion of Lt. Col. Wynn’s time in command and recognized his dedication to the Soldiers, families, and mission of the battalion. Throughout his command, the unit remained focused on readiness, excellence, and enhancing overall capability within the organization. Lt. Col. Wynn and his Family will be sincerely missed as they transition to their next chapter. 💐

As Lt. Col. Huebner assumes command, the battalion welcomes him and his family and look forward to the leadership, experience, and vision he will bring to the organization. ⭐️

Please join us in thanking Lt. Col. Wynn for his service and leadership and wishing Lt. Col. Huebner continued success as he takes command of the 3-364 Rampants! 🎖️

📸 Staff Sgt. Ebony Washington/ 189th Infantry Brigade Public Affairs

First Army | First Army Division East | Joint Base Lewis-McChord

🎖️ Honoring the Change of Command – 2-357th Infantry Battalion, 189th Infantry Brigade 🎖️

Today, the 2-357th Infantry Battalion, 189th Infantry Brigade, conducted a Change of Command ceremony at Watkins Field on Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, as Lt. Col. Christopher Zagursky relinquished command to Lt. Col. Gregory Benjamin.

We extend our deepest gratitude to Lt. Col. Zagursky and his family for their commitment, sacrifice, and steadfast support throughout his time in command. His leadership, dedication to Soldiers, and contributions to the Raider Battalion have made a lasting impact on the unit and its mission. 💐

We are proud to welcome Lt. Col. Benjamin and his family to the Raider team. As he assumes command, we look forward to his leadership, experience, and vision as he guides the battalion into its next chapter while continuing to uphold excellence and readiness across the formation. ⭐️

Thank you to the Soldiers, families, friends, and distinguished guests who joined us in recognizing this significant milestone and honoring the transition of leadership. 🎖️

📸 Staff Sgt. Ebony Washington/ 189th Infantry Brigade Public Affairs

First Army | First Army Division East | Joint Base Lewis-McChord

The Raider Battalion recently redeployed from Luzon Island, Philippines, after participating in Salaknib 2026, a U.S. Army Pacific Pathways Exercise.

From May 2–22, 2026, the battalion led a 65-Soldier Task Force of Observer Coach/Trainers (OC/Ts) from 2-357 IN, 189th Infantry Brigade, the Hawaii Army National Guard, and partner forces from Australia and New Zealand. Throughout the exercise, the task force supported training operations while helping strengthen interoperability, enhance readiness, and build relationships among allied and partner forces.

First Army | First Army Division East | Hawaii Army National Guard | Joint Base Lewis-McChord

The 189th Infantry Brigade recognized Lt. Col. Richard Helsham during his farewell, presenting him with the Meritorious Service Medal and the Order of Saint Maurice in recognition of his outstanding service, leadership, and dedication to the unit throughout his assignment.

These awards reflect the lasting impact Lt. Col. Helsham has had on the brigade. His commitment to excellence, mentorship, and mission accomplishment has helped shape the formation and leave a legacy that will endure long after his departure.

We thank Lt. Col. Helsham and his Family for their service and sacrifices and wish them continued success as they begin their next chapter.

📸 Photos by Staff Sgt. Ebony Washington/ 189th Infantry Brigade PAO

First Army | First Army Division East | Joint Base Lewis-McChord

The 189th Infantry Brigade gathered at Farrelli’s Pizza for a Hail and Farewell, May 28th, 2026, recognizing the Soldiers and Families who have recently joined the team and those moving on to their next assignment.

Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make the evening a success. We wish our departing teammates the very best in their next chapter and look forward to the impact our newest members will make across the brigade.

📸 Photos by Staff Sgt. Ebony Washington/189th Infantry Brigade PAO

First Army Division East | First Army | Joint Base Lewis-McChord