INNSWORTH, United Kingdom  – Lieutenant General Tim Radford, CB DSO OBE, took command of the Allied Rapid Reaction Corps at Imjin Barracks in Gloucestershire on Monday, July 25, 2016.

While no formal change of command ceremony was held, events primarily focused on staff briefings, official welcome procedures and the ceremonial departure of the outgoing commander. 

"After three truly excellent years I now bid farewell to the ARRC Group; it has been a most rewarding tour of duty, both professionally and socially," said Lieutenant General Tim Evans, CB CBE DSO, as he handed the command to Radford.

"The blend of 21 nations working together to achieve a common goal is really powerful and it makes the ARRC rather special. I would like to thank all those who have supported me during my command and I wish them all the very best for the future. I leave with very fond memories of my time at Innsworth and I know the next commander, Lieutenant General Tim Radford CB DSO OBE will be very well served by the ARRC," he said.

Radford joins the ARRC after an extensive career. His previous job was Deputy Commander of Operation Resolute Support in Afghanistan.

"It's a great honour to take command of the Allied Rapid Reaction Corps today," said Radford. "Whilst I haven't served in the ARRC before, I have served alongside it in Afghanistan and recognize its excellent reputation. It represents the United Kingdom's strong commitment to NATO and the close links to our Allies and Partners."

"I would also like to pay tribute to my predecessor, Lieutenant General Tim Evans," said Radford. "His service, both to the country and to NATO, has been exemplary. I am very proud to be taking over from him and am looking forward to serving in the HQ and within the wider NATO community."

The ARRC assumes responsibility of the Land Component Command HQ for the Enhanced NATO Response Force (eNRF) in January 2017, on ready-standby to deploy on operations if required by NATO. NATO Rapid Deployable Corps Spain currently stand in that position. The new commander will lead the ARRC through a series of readiness exercises this year with the final certification, Exercise Trident Juncture 16, in November.

To learn more about Headquarters Allied Rapid Reaction Corps, visit their website at http://www.arrc.nato.int/