The U.S. Army Institute of Surgical Research held a traditional First Sergeant Change of Responsibility ceremony June 12 at Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston, Texas.

1st Sgt. Bradley Proud relinquished responsibilities as the USAISR first sergeant with the passing of the noncommissioned officer's sword from the USAISR Company Commander, Capt. LaShawnna Ray, to 1st Sgt. Natasha A. Turrell.

Turrell spoke highly of Proud who had served as the Institute's first sergeant since August 2012. Proud is transferring to Madigan Army Medical Center at Joint Base Lewis-McCord near Tacoma, Wash.

"He's leaving me with a great group of Soldiers," said Turrell. "His leadership was a valuable asset to the Soldiers and this Institute. My intention is to build upon that foundation and take us to the next level."

Turrell has served as the USAISR Damage Control Resuscitation and Blood Group noncommissioned officer in charge since September 2013.

"I feel honored and humbled by the opportunity to serve as the first sergeant," she said.

With only a few short weeks at the helm, Turrell said that she is getting into a "battle rhythm" and looking to see how to best serve USAISR.

"I would like to see USAISR involved with more volunteer opportunities in San Antonio and surrounding communities," said Turrell. I would also like to help build a greater culture of trust among the command, Soldiers and civilians."

The 20-year Army veteran believes that she is in a position where she can share her knowledge and experience with her Soldiers and help them excel on a personal and professional level. She also wants them to know that everyone at the USAISR is on one team and should always treat each other with the upmost dignity and respect.

"I expect Soldiers to be honest and give 100 percent in all that they do," said Turrell.

"In return, they can expect me to be fair, honest and accessible to helping them excel. I will give them 100 percent as their first sergeant."

Turrell will be focused on the success of her Soldiers and the Institute by looking at new ways of doing day-to-day business.

"My goal is to streamline some of our daily processes and make things easier for the Soldiers to access information," she said. "I would also like to help the command open up to innovative ideas to make the Institute better."

Turrell believes that she will have a positive tour because she has the support of the command and her family.

"My family has always been my source of encouragement and a great sounding board in my professional and personal life," she said. "I value the wisdom and knowledge that my family has gifted me with over the last 20 years."