Texas State Guard Battalion changes command

Col. Dennis O'Driscoll, left, congratulates LTC Buddy Grantham on his new position of commanding officer of the TXSG 1st Battalion/ 8th Regiment.

The Pasadena-based Texas State Guard First Battalion/8th Regiment changed commanders during the Wings Over Houston Air Show Sunday, Oct. 28.

Lt. Col. Edwin Buddy Grantham took the reigns from retiring commander LTC John Adams.

According to a press release, Grantham has a long history of military service in Texas. Prior to joining the Texas State Guard, he served for 31 years in the Texas Army National Guard. His assignments included company and troop commander, battalion executive officer, S3 operations, S4 logistics and deputy inspector general during operations in Bosnia. Grantham retired from TXANG in August 2005 and joined the Texas State Guard in May 2007.

Since then, Grantham has served as a regiments executive officer, civil affairs assistant and operations officer. Additionally, he serves as the director of veterans affairs for the city of Houston.

Grantham graduated with a bachelor's degree from Texas A&M and has completed several commanding officer training courses. He also holds several military honors, including the Armed Forces Service Medal and the Defense Meritorious Service Medal.

The Texas State Guard trains military forces for the event of a state-declared emergency. TXSG is one of three branches of the Texas Military Forces, which includes TXANG and the Texas Air National Guard.

For more information, visit www.gotxsg.com.