National Guard Joint Forces Headquarters Change of Responsibility

SANTA FE, N.M. – The New Mexico Army National Guard’s Joint Forces Headquarters held a change of responsibility ceremony, in which 1st Sgt. Robert Brashear relinquished responsibility to incoming 1st Sgt. Vincent Salazar at the 615th Transportation Battalion Readiness Center here Aug. 1, 2026.

“Serving as your first sergeant for the past three years has been one of the greatest honors of my military career,” Brashear said. “It’s definitely been a challenge, but it’s been very rewarding at the same time.”

Brashear reflected on leading JFHQ over the past three years, describing the assignment as rewarding due to the opportunity to serve alongside Soldiers and leaders with a wide range of military backgrounds and experiences.

“The most important part of the unit and mission success is the Soldiers in this unit,” Brashear said. “Their collective knowledge and expertise strengthened the organization and made the assignment especially meaningful,”

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As Salazar assumed responsibility, he stated his priorities for the unit are building teamwork, maintaining communication and ensuring Soldiers are prepared to support state and federal missions.

“I want to bring everybody together, work together, make sure we’re on time, doing what we need, supporting the community and getting all the commander’s directives and orders done on time,” Salazar said.

Salazar also stated that he also hopes to help Soldiers achieve their professional goals by improving physical readiness, encouraging career progression and ensuring they receive the support they need during difficult times.

“I want to work with the Soldiers, help everybody pass the PT (physical training) test, meet height and weight standards, get their promotion packets together and find their place in the Guard,” Salazar said. “In times of chaos or trouble, I want to make sure they get the help they need.”

(Photos by Sgt. 1st Class Gregory Smith, Sgt. Jose Montoya, Spc. Joseph Scibek and Pfc. Christina Gonzales, 200th PAD)