1st Sgt. Daniel J. Correll assumed responsibility for the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, at a change of responsibility ceremony at Fort Detrick, Maryland, June 12.

Correll accepted responsibility as the HHC 1st Sgt. from outgoing 1st Sgt. Marc D. Ervin. The passing of the Noncommissioned Officer Sword symbolized the transfer of this charge.

"The first sergeant is the life blood of the Army," said USAMRIID Medical Company Commander Capt. Tericka L. Washington. "When they are exceptional, their unit is exceptional."

According to Washington, Ervin, a Fort Campbell, Kentucky native, epitomized the seven Army values Soldiers are expected to live every day. She added that Ervin faced and overcame many challenges while leading the company. Washington said Correll will face some of the same critical trials and she was confident, "he, too, will not waiver."

Born in Easton, Pennsylvania, Correll entered the Army in 1991. He has served multiple assignments at home and abroad including peacekeeping and humanitarian aid missions in Bosnia and Haiti.

USAMRIID is the lead medical research laboratory for the U.S. biological defense research program. HHC USAMRIID is responsible for the health and welfare of USAMRIID Soldiers. In his new role, Correll will serve as the HHC commander's advisor on all issues relating to these men and women from discipline, to accountability and morale.

"We have a long journey ahead. It's my honor and privilege to be your first sergeant," said Correll.