Richardson assumes new role at Ft. Hood

Maj. Gen. John Richardson assumed duties as deputy commanding general for operations of III Corps and acting senior commander of Ft. Hood, TX, this week to “enable continuity of command” as III Corps returns from leading the Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve, the Army announced.

Richardson previously was Army Forces Command’s director of operations and was selected for his new position in March.

Maj. Gen. Scott Efflandt will continue to serve as the deputy commanding general for support and will remain at Ft. Hood to assist with the integration of III Corps as they return from their mission.

“With Maj. Gen. Efflandt remaining at Ft. Hood, the Army will announce the name of a new commander for the 1st Armored Division, which Efflandt had previously been designated to lead,” the service said in a press release. “That announcement is expected in the coming days.”

The Army also announced that FORSCOM commander Gen. Michael Garrett will appoint Gen. John Murray, commanding general of Army Futures Command, to lead several investigations underway at Ft. Hood covering “a wide range of topics and concerns.”

The command has recently been beset by problems including the death of two soldiers who had gone missing from base.

“Gen. Murray will roll those efforts into a more complete and comprehensive investigation that will delve into all activities and levels of leadership,” the service says.