Col. David Dake assumed command from Col. Rhett Blackmon as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Galveston District (SWG) commander during a change of command ceremony, July 29, 2025, at the district’s headquarters.
On top of handing over command to Dake, Blackmon also celebrated his retirement from the Army after 26 years of service.
Brig. Gen. George Walter, USACE Southwestern Division commander, presided over the ceremony.
Walter opened with remarks on the importance of the time-honored military tradition of changing command and touched on the legacy Blackmon leaves behind at Galveston.
“Let me begin by recognizing and commending Col. Blackmon for his exceptional leadership over the past three years,” Walter said. “Since assuming command in July 2022, he has guided the Galveston District through one of the most productive and transformative periods in recent history.”
Walter went on to list various SWG accomplishments under Blackmon’s leadership, such as: seeing the Houston Ship Channel Improvement Project—otherwise known as Project 11—fully funded to completion; awarding the final contract for the Corpus Christi Ship Channel Improvement Project to deepen and widen nearly 12 miles of channel; and breaking ground on the Brazos Island Harbor Channel Improvement Project, which will help bring economic opportunity to one of the country’s most underserved regions.
Blackmon took to the podium to address the guests in attendance and the Galveston District one last time as their commander.
“Three years ago, I was honored to join this district as your commander,” Blackmon said. “Champions, you have not only delivered increased storm resiliency, environmental restoration, and safe navigation on the Texas coast. You responded to declared emergencies and crises on top of situations and environments that are constantly evolving with a steadfast resolve unlike anything I’ve ever seen. I stand truly in awe of what you have accomplished. Thank you!”
The outgoing district commander thanked the ‘Champions’ of the Galveston District for their hard work and dedication during his tenure and assured the incoming commander he was in good hands.
Blackmon then gave way to Dake who addressed the Galveston District for the first time as its commander.
“Champions of the Coast, it is my honor to assume command of one of the most strategically important civil works districts in the entire U.S. Army Corps of Engineers,” Dake said. “I am humbled by my selection as your district commander. My family and I are excited to join the Galveston District team and the coastal Texas community. I look forward to adding to your 225-year history of serving and protecting the Texas coast and its vibrant communities. Essayons!”
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