Two proven leaders are taking command of the Indiana Guard Reserve (IGR) and its parent organization, the Indiana National Guard this summer. While change is often difficult and uncertain, Guard Reservists are optimistic the new commanders will continue to build on the strong foundation developed over the past decades.
Maj. Gen. Bruce Bowers is the new commanding general of the IGR. Bowers has been a member of the IGR since 1987 and has served in multiple positions in second brigade and at IGR headquarters. Bowers entered military service in 1970 and was appointed com-manding general of the IGR and promoted to major general by Maj. Gen. R. Martin Um-barger, the adjutant general of Indiana, in April. His promotion was not a surprise to Guard Reservists, including Command Sgt. Maj. James Coe.
“Everyone knows his leadership and care of the soldiers will bring further greatness to the IGR,” Coe said. Bowers replaces Maj. Gen. F. Barry Green, who retired after leading the IGR for ten years and serving the IGR and Indiana Army National Guard for more than a half century.