Command Sgt. Maj. James Brian Kendrick officially assumed the role of 14th command sergeant major of the Army National Guard at a ceremony at the Herbert R. Temple Center Feb. 18, 2025. Kendrick, whose Army career spans over 35 years, succeeded Command Sgt. Maj. John T. Raines, the seventh senior enlisted advisor to the National Guard Bureau chief, in November.
Command Sgt. Maj. James Brian Kendrick officially assumed the role of 14th command sergeant major of the Army National Guard at a ceremony at the Herbert R. Temple Center Feb. 18, 2025. Kendrick, whose Army career spans over 35 years, succeeded Command Sgt. Maj. John T. Raines, the seventh senior enlisted advisor to the National Guard Bureau chief, in November. (Photo Credit: Sgt. 1st Class Daisy Broker) VIEW ORIGINAL

ARLINGTON, Va. – Surrounded by family, friends and National Guard leaders from the 54 states, territories and the District of Columbia, Command Sgt. Maj. James Brian Kendrick officially assumed the role of 14th command sergeant major of the Army National Guard at a ceremony at the Herbert R. Temple Center Feb. 18.

Kendrick, whose Army career spans over 35 years, succeeded Command Sgt. Maj. John T. Raines, who assumed the role of seventh senior enlisted advisor to the chief of the National Guard Bureau in November.

Lt. Gen. Jon Stubbs, 23rd director of the Army National Guard, thanked Kendrick’s family for their unwavering support and emphasized what made Kendrick the right Soldier for the job.

“When you talk about Army leaders, you can’t help but think about character, commitment and competence,” said Stubbs. “I can say without a shadow of a doubt Command Sgt. Maj. Brian Kendrick is a man of immense character. He lives the Army values every day. He is a model, he exudes them.”

Kendrick thanked Stubbs for the trust placed in him and honored the family, friends and mentors who attended in person and virtually.

“Your encouragement and belief in me have been invaluable,” said Kendrick. ”The military lifestyle is not easy and comes with its own set of challenges. I am grateful for your patience and understanding. Thank you for sharing this journey with me and for inspiring me.

Kendrick outlined his support and commitment to Army National Guard Soldiers and families.

“As your command sergeant major, I am committed to preparing you for what is to come and voicing the needs of all Army Guard Soldiers and families at the highest levels,” said Kendrick.

“I’m committed to fostering the trust necessary to build a team that encourages excellence in everything we do and is fully accountable to those we serve. Together, we will grow combat-ready Soldiers and leaders and build the lethal units necessary to transform the Army Guard for the future.”

As command sergeant major of the Army National Guard, Kendrick will advise the director of the Army National Guard on all matters affecting the enlisted force.

Kendrick has held numerous senior enlisted leadership roles throughout his career, from battalion command sergeant major, troop command command sergeant major, command sergeant major of the Florida ARNG and, most recently, senior enlisted leader to Army Maj. Gen. John D. Haas, adjutant general of the Florida National Guard.