West Point, N.Y. – Brig. Gen. Diana Holland will become the 76th Commandant of Cadets at the U.S. Military Academy the Army announced on Tuesday, making her the first woman to hold the position in West Point history.
Acting secretary of the Army Eric Fanning praised the selection, “Diana’s operational and command experiences will bring a new and diverse perspective to West Point’s leadership team,” said Fanning. “She is absolutely the right person for this critical position.”
Holland is currently serving as the Deputy Commanding General (Support), 10th Mountain Division (Light), Fort Drum, New York, and will replace Maj. Gen. John C. Thomson III.
“I am very honored to be named the next Commandant of the U.S. Corps of Cadets,” said Holland. “It’s a privilege to be part of the team that trains and develops leaders of character for our Army. I look forward to continuing the legacy set by Maj. Gen. Thomson and all previous commandants.”
Thomson, who relinquished command of the Corps of Cadets during a ceremony at West Point on Monday, has been named Commanding General, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.
According to Lt. Gen. Robert Caslen, Superintendent, Holland will be a valuable addition to the team. “Diana Holland is a superb leader who has a phenomenal reputation throughout the Army. She is immensely qualified for the job and we look forward to her joining the West Point team as commandant.”
Holland will assume command during a ceremony scheduled for Jan. 5 at West Point.
