Fort Rucker welcomes new deputy commander

FORT RUCKER - The U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence’s former chief of staff will now serve as its deputy commander.

Friends, family and soldiers from across Fort Rucker welcomed Col. Warren E. Phipps to his new duties during a ceremony at the Army Aviation Museum on Friday.

As deputy commander, officials said Phipps’ responsibilities are expected to include aviation training, leadership development, and Aviation Branch policy. His primary duties include providing oversight for flight training and maintenance of aircraft. 

“He knows how to take care of soldiers and their families, and that’s most important,” said Fort Rucker’s commanding general, Brig. Gen. James O. Barclay III.

Phipps said he was humbled to receive the position, as he knew there were others who were just as qualified as he.

“This is a new page in my Army career. I make a pledge … I will do these duties and give it my all,” he said.