The helm of US European Command changed hands Monday from Marine Corps Gen. James Jones to Army Gen. John Craddock in a ceremony at Patch Barracks in Stuttgart, Germany. On Thursday, there’ll be a repeat performance when Craddock assumes the mantle of Supreme Allied Commander, Europe, in a ceremony in Mons, Belgium. Craddock, who previously served as head of US Southern Command, has spent 13 years in European assignments during his career.
Air Force Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich assumed command of U.S. European Command on July 1, taking over the key assignment as the U.S. and its allies contend with a resurgent Russia and a grinding war in Ukraine.