Lt. Col. Edward P. Chamberlayne assumed command of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Charleston District from Lt. Col. Jason A. Kirk on July 8th at a ceremony held at The Citadel, the Military College of South Carolina. Maj. Gen. Todd T. Semonite, Commander of the Corps’ South Atlantic Division, officiated at the ceremony and welcomed Chamberlayne and his family to the District. Maj. Kevin Wissel, Charleston District Deputy Commander, served as the master of ceremonies, while Bill Stein, deputy for programs and project management, assisted with the Presentation of Colors, symbolizing the partnership between the District’s military and civilian workforce.
Semonite praised Chamberlayne during his remarks saying, “Lt. Col. Chamberlayne’s abilities as a leader will serve the Charleston District well. He is the right guy for the challenges that will face the Corps in the future and I look forward to seeing him lead the Charleston team.”
Chamberlayne comes to Charleston from his last assignment at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) where he earned a doctorate in industrial and systems engineering. Before earning his doctorate, he served in numerous engineer command and staff positions in both the United States and overseas. He was born in Alexandria, Virginia and received a commission as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in August 1993, after graduating from Virginia Tech with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in civil engineering. He also earned a master’s degree in engineering management from Missouri University of Science and Technology and is a registered professional engineer in the state of Missouri. His numerous military awards include two Bronze Star Medals, four Meritorious Service Medals, the Combat Action Badge and the Air Assault Badge.
“I am excited and honored to join this outstanding team of professionals and to serve the citizens of South Carolina,” said Chamberlayne. “The Charleston District has a talented team with a reputation for excellence. From the Spartanburg/Greenville area to Fort Jackson to Myrtle Beach and all the places in between, know that the District is hard at work to serve the federal interest in water resources solutions, delivering military construction and protecting our environment.”
The tradition of the Change of Command ceremony dates back to the passing of the scepter, which is a symbol of authority, from the old Caesar to the new, in the progression of the Roman Empire. The U.S. Army adopted the custom of the passing of the Colors from the British, and instituted it in the 18th century when General George Washington assumed command of the Continental Army in Boston on July 3, 1775. The ceremony symbolizes the passage of authority, responsibility and accountability.
Welcome Lt. Col. Chamberlayne from the entire Team Charleston! We are excited for your leadership for the next two years!