Graves assumes command of South Dakota Army National Guard’s 196th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade
Graves succeeds Col. Dennis Bickett, who led the brigade from October 2023 through September 2026.
After accepting the brigade colors, Graves addressed Soldiers, families and guests, outlining a vision centered on disciplined leadership, readiness and service.
“It is the honor of a lifetime to stand before you today and take command of this brigade,” Graves said. “I’m humbled and deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve as your commander.”
Graves emphasized the role noncommissioned officers play in maintaining standards, training Soldiers and building a ready organization. She recognized Command Sgt. Maj. Robert Schmidt, the brigade’s command sergeant major, and the brigade’s NCO corps as critical to its continued success.
“To the NCOs of the 196th MEB, you’re the backbone of this brigade,” Graves said. “You set the standard, enforce the standard, train our Soldiers and take care of them every day.”
Graves said she looks forward to working alongside the brigade’s leaders and Soldiers to continue building a disciplined and ready team. She also stressed the responsibility that comes with representing the South Dakota Army National Guard and the communities its Soldiers serve.
“When we wear this patch, we carry the trust of South Dakota,” Graves said, describing that trust as both a privilege and a responsibility the brigade will continue to uphold.
Graves enlisted in the South Dakota Army National Guard in February 2000 as a motor transport operator and then went on to commission in August 2002. She has held command and staff assignments throughout the South Dakota Army National Guard, including command of the Recruiting and Retention Battalion, 109th Regional Support Group, 196th Regiment, Regional Training Institute, 881st Troop Command and 196th MEB.
Graves deployed to Iraq with the 1742nd Transportation Company from 2003 to 2004 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Brig. Gen. David Dailey, South Dakota National Guard assistant adjutant general for Army, recognized Bickett’s accomplishments and expressed confidence in Graves’ ability to keep the brigade moving forward.
“It’s easy to take something at the top and then fall,” Dailey told Graves. “It’s hard to get something at the top and then keep going. But I think you’re naturally the right person.”
Bickett reflected on his three years in command and expressed confidence in the brigade’s future.
“It has been such a tremendous honor to serve as the commander of the 196,” Bickett said. “The 196 is in great hands with Colonel Graves, and I look forward to seeing the great things the MEB will do under your leadership.”
Graves thanked Bickett for his leadership and the organization he leaves behind.
“Colonel Bickett, you’ve led this organization with professionalism, purpose and genuine care for its Soldiers, families and communities,” Graves said. “Thank you for the example you have set and for the strong brigade you leave behind.”
As commander, Graves said the brigade will continue to focus on trained and ready Soldiers, strong leadership and a shared commitment to those they serve.
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