Sgt. Maj. Quinton Rice Jr. joined the U.S. Army Institute of Surgical Research to become the Institute's senior enlisted advisor. Rice said he is thankful to take this position and is looking forward to continuing to bring honor to this organization. He describes himself as humble with a modest philosophy as a leader.

"I'm simple and I follow orders," he said. "I want to add strength and effectiveness to the command."

Rice brings 30 years of experience to the USAISR. He began his Army career in 1983 as a medical specialist and eventually a pharmacy specialist. His last job was as the Operations sergeant major for the Pacific Regional Medical Command in Honolulu, Hawaii. Rice's approach to every new job is to look at what's working and, if needed, to make improvements.

"I do best with talent management," Rice said.

Rice added that retirement from the Army will eventually come, but for now that's not on his mind. Having a strong and ready force will be at the forefront of his priorities.

"Readiness is important," he said. "We never know when we'll be called to deploy in support of an operation, so we have to be ready."

Rice said he looks forward to his tour at the Institute and to the support he will get from the staff.

"I want to be part of the team without the spotlight," Rice said. "I am humbled and honored to have this opportunity."