By Michael M. Novogradac, U.S. Army Operational Test Command Public Affairs
WEST FORT HOOD, Texas — The U.S. Army Operational Test Command bid farewell to one trusted senior enlisted leader and welcomed another during a change of responsibility ceremony here Dec. 9.
Command Sgt. Maj. Joe E. Johnson Jr. relinquished responsibility as OTC’s senior enlisted leader to Command Sgt. Maj. David N. Sweeney in a time-honored tradition that celebrates continuity of service and the strength of the Army’s Non-Commissioned Officer Corps.
Sweeney arrived at OTC after serving as the Command Sergeant Major of U.S. Army Garrison Fort Bliss, Texas, and the 1st Armored Division Home Station Mission Command.
OTC Commander Brig. Gen. Shannon-Mikal Lucas emphasized Johnson’s people-first leadership and presence across OTC’s dispersed footprint.
“He masterfully served as the eyes and ears of this command,” Lucas said. “Always taking time to listen. Most importantly, to mentor and support those who needed him. His presence was never symbolic. He always went out there with a deliberate purpose. It was personal, and most importantly, it was impactful.”
From Fort Bliss, Texas to White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, from Fort Huachuca, Arizona, to China Lake, California, Lucas said Johnson is known for showing up where Soldiers and Army Civilians were testing Army equipment and listening more than he spoke.
“Since April 2023 Command Sergeant Major Johnson has led, cared for, and trained over 574 Soldiers and Civilians across five states and eight directorates,” he said. “And under his watch, OTC conducted 142 major equipment and systems tests which really range from such capabilities as the Precision Strike Missile to the Sentinel radar, the Javelin Lightweight Command Launch Unit and the Lower Tier Air and Missile Defense Sensor.”
Lucas made clear that numbers alone do not define Johnson’s legacy.
“He had an exceptional ability to sense and understand the pulse of the unit. Most importantly, to mentor and support those who needed him.”
Johnson centered his remarks on gratitude for the opportunity to lead, and the people who made the mission possible.
“It was my sincere honor and distinct privilege to serve as the United States Army Operational Test Command’s 21st Command Sergeant Major,” he said.
He thanked God, Lucas, and his family.
“I thank God for carrying me,” Johnson said. “I thank General Lucas for his trust and confidence in me to serve in this role, and my bride Darlene and our daughter Jada, for their enduring support.
“I would not have successfully served OTC for 32 months without you. Your support has been a constant source of strength.”
Looking ahead, Johnson said, “As I pass the colors to Command Sergeant Major Dave Sweeney, I’m confident that this great command will continue to thrive and evolve. I look forward to seeing the future accomplishments of OTC, knowing that the standard of excellence will remain as high as ever.
“Truth in Testing, This We’ll Defend, Airborne All the Way. Command Sgt. Maj. Major Joe Johnson signing off.”
Johnson will retire during a separate ceremony at the III Corps and Fort Hood Headquarters West Atrium Dec. 16.
Sweeney, a combat-tested leader with assignments from South Korea to Guantanamo Bay and Afghanistan to Fort Bliss, Texas, praised both Johnson’s and Lucas’ support during his transition and pledged to build on OTC’s culture.
“I’m honored to serve alongside you and look forward to everything we are about to accomplish together,” he said. “I have never received such a warm welcome as I’ve come into an installation or to a unit or any PCS (permanent change of station).”
He also underscored his commitment to OTC’s mission and people.
“For the entire command, I am eager to learn the ins and outs of what you do,” Sweeney said.
“I am impressed with everything that I have heard so far and look forward to supporting you to ensure our war fighters have everything they need to deter and if necessary to win in the next fight.”
Lucas closed by thanking Johnson’s wife, Darlene, and daughter Jada, for their sacrifices.
“The strength of the NCO Corps lies in its continuity and today, we welcome a new leader, who will carry this mantle forward for OTC’s future,” said Lucas.
OTC, subordinate to the U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, tests new and modernized equipment under realistic conditions before it is fielded to Soldiers.
