USAG Humphreys, Republic of Korea – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) – Far East District (FED) held a change of command ceremony on August 21, 2024, where Col. Heather A. Levy relinquished command to Col. Jeremiah J. Willis. Brig. Gen. Joseph C. “Clete” Goetz II, USACE Pacific Ocean Division commander, presided over the event at the Riverbend Golf Course on Camp Humphreys, South Korea.

During the ceremony, Goetz thanked Levy for her exceptional leadership over the past two years and highlighted her contribution to the Fed’s success, including the implementation of more than $6.8 billion worth of construction projects funded by the United States and other host countries.

“(Levy), you have done an amazing job,” Goetz said. “In a short time, you and your team have accomplished incredible things. Your leadership has been critical to bridging cultures and the success of this unique district.”

Goetz also welcomed Willis and his family to the Far East District and emphasized the challenges and opportunities ahead.

“(Willis) has big shoes to fill, but you are ready,” Goetz said. “The same team that supported (Levy) is now at your side, and I have full confidence that you will lead this district to even greater heights.”

In her parting remarks, Levy reflected on her time as commander of the 38th Regiment and expressed her deep appreciation for the team she had led.

“It has been the greatest privilege of my career to serve on this team,” she said. “I am honored to have been part of this important effort and, more importantly, to have done so alongside my teammates in the Far East District.”

Levy also acknowledged the unique challenges FED faces as the only permanent warfighting district within USACE. She emphasized the district’s critical contributions to maintaining stability in Northeast Asia, including providing critical “Fight Tonight” capabilities and infrastructure projects across the Korean Peninsula.

As Levy begins her new role with U.S. Forces Korea, she thanked her family, colleagues and the district’s staff for their unwavering support.

“The engineer’s motto is one of my favorites – ‘Essayons,’ which means let’s try,” she said. “We will find a way to overcome the obstacles. We can only do this through the commitment of the Far East District team and our partners.”

As the new commander took the podium, Willis expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead such an outstanding team.

“It is both an honor and a privilege to stand here this afternoon and take the lead of such a great district,” he said.

He thanked Levy for her outstanding leadership and for ensuring a smooth transition.

“I am inheriting a great team and that is because you set such high standards,” he said.

Looking ahead, Willis emphasized his commitment to strengthening partnerships with Korean stakeholders and continuing the district’s excellence.

“I look forward to achieving great, sustainable results together and tackling new challenges with the same dedication that characterizes this district,” he said.

When Willis assumes command, the Far East District will continue its mission of providing high-quality programs and infrastructure in support of U.S. and South Korean forces, ensuring readiness and stability in the region.

For more information about the USACE Far East District, visit the FED website: https://www.pof.usace.army.mil.