PICATINNY ARSENAL, New Jersey –
Col. Leon Rogers assumed his new role as Project Manager Combat Ammunition Systems (PM CAS) as Col. Anthony Gibbs relinquished his authority and responsibilities to his successor in a change of charter ceremony here at Picatinny Arsenal on July 28, 2022.
Before his new assignment, Rogers served as Executive Officer to the Assistant Secretary of the Army (Acquisition, Logistics and Technology) (ASA (ALT). Rogers is a native of Chicago, Illinois where he enlisted in the Illinois National Guard in 1996 as an 88M, Truck Driver, and served with the 634th Forward Support Battalion while completing his undergraduate studies at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champagne. He then earned his Masters of Business Administration and Army Commission from Eastern Illinois University in August of 1999 as an Armor Officer.
PM CAS is responsible for development, procurement and fielding of lethal armaments and ammunition, providing joint warfighters and allies with overmatch capabilities. Functions of the office include integrating budgets, acquisition strategies, research and development, and life-cycle management across all combat ammunition systems programs.
Brig. Gen. John T. Reim, Joint Program Executive Officer Armaments and Ammunition (JPEO A&A) and Picatinny Arsenal Commanding General, presided over the ceremony.
Reim thanked Gibbs for his contributions in advancing a number of U.S. Army initiatives, including the Extended Range Cannon Artillery ammunition, replenishment of US 155mm inventory after Presidential Drawdowns, and modernization of the 155m, 105mm, and mortar ammunition industrial base.
“Tony tremendously improved the ability for our Nation to support our warfighters now and well into the future,” Reim said. “Serving as the Project Manager Combat Ammunition Systems, Tony directly contributed to the National Defense Strategy to improve lethality and Army readiness by ensuring all deploying and forward units were capable of employing conventional and precision cannon and mortar munitions,” Reim added.
Reim emphasized that Rogers has a broad range of experience that affords a solid foundation for his new assignment and can carry on the momentum of the organization. “I know you possess the leadership, integrity, and technical expertise to be highly successful in your new role here within the JPEO Armaments and Ammunition.” Reim added, “I know you are going to lead the CAS team with the same pride, professionalism and expertise that got you here. I look forward to working with you.”
Gibbs thanked members of the PM CAS workforce for their professionalism and dedication to the mission. “One thing I do know, is that I’ve been privileged to lead a great team of dedicated professionals, and I take a lot of satisfaction in what we’ve accomplished.”
Gibbs emphasized that his career accomplishments are a direct reflection of the support that he receives from his wife, Stefanie, and daughters, Emelia, and Ella.
“Thank you, girls, for sticking with me all these years. I couldn’t be prouder of you and I love you with all my heart,” Gibbs added.
In his remarks, Rogers noted that “Col. Gibbs leaves behind a fantastic organization.” Rogers emphasized that PM CAS is “filled with exceptional leaders and talented individuals that epitomize how a team should fight and win.” Rogers said.
The incoming Project Manager Combat Ammunition Systems thanked “Honorable Douglas Bush, Lt. Gen. Marion, and Reim for having the trust and confidence in me to lead this wonderful organization.”
Rogers thanked his wife, Latrease and sons, Leon III, and Landon for their unconditional support “Thank you for constantly supporting me and the “Rogers” name. I will keep rowing on!” Rogers said.
The ceremony included a symbolic transfer of command responsibility with the passing of the PM CAS flag from Gibbs to Rogers.