The noncommissioned officer’s sword was passed by Command Sgt. Maj. Antoine Overstreet to his successor, Command Sgt. Maj. Ken Graham, signifying the relinquishing of his responsibility and authority as the command’s top NCO.

Overstreet said it has been an honor to serve as the command sergeant major.

“Two years ago when I was selected ... I was told by my peers that I would have a hard time adapting to this environment. I am what they call in the military a 24-7 soldier. Upon my arrival to OTC, I had several basic goals: to ensure the commander’s intent was met, take care of those in my charge, and to continue to grow and develop the NCO corps and continue to ensure that we are the backbone of the Army,” Overstreet said.

He has not been notified of his next assignment and will continue to live as neighbors on Fort Hood with Graham until he receives new orders.

OTC commander Brig. Gen. Scott Spellmon praised Overstreet’s achievements.

“Overall, what CSM Overstreet has done here at OTC has been critical to our soldiers. He’s brought the operational experience of a warfighter to the testing community, and his professional insight has benefitted senior Army leaders as they have made tough acquisition decisions — and there have been many,” he said.

Graham is no stranger to Fort Hood. He most recently served as commandant of the Fort Hood NCO Academy. Before that he was the top NCO for 48th Chemical Brigade. While the environment at OTC will be much different, he said he is clear on this mission.

“I understand that what we do is serious business and we can’t afford to cut corners,” Graham said. “We never know when an item we have tested will find its way into the hands of an American soldier or our joint partners fighting our nations’ wars. If and when it does, it better work as intended and I am committed to ensuring we do just that.”

Graham was not somber in all of his comments hinting to his less serious side in closing.

“I would like to thank the ladies of my life, my super-hot wife, Melony, and my bright and beautiful daughter, Brittany. Once again, we embark on an exciting journey and I know you are right there with me every step of the way as you have always been,” he said.