JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska -- Lt. Col. Robert Seymour ceremoniously relinquished command of 1st Battalion, 207th Aviation Regiment to Lt. Col. Michele Edwards in a change of command ceremony held at the National Guard armory, here, Oct. 13.

Edwards is taking command during a time of change for the 1-207th. The unit is in the process of adding UH-72 Lakota helicopters and CH-47 Chinook helicopters to their fleet. Their UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters and C-12 aircraft counts are scheduled to double.

“I can't think of a more capable officer to see through that transformation and to take this unit to the next level of performance than Lt. Col. Michele Edwards,” said Seymour.

The transition will significantly increase the capacity to support the state and the nation in times of need.

The 1-207th received its start in 1972 as an assault helicopter company. Several restructurings have occurred to build it into the current battalion.

Edwards began her military career in 1995 as a supply specialist. In 2005 she transferred to the Alaska Army National Guard where she served as a platoon leader in the 207th AVN.

“I'm honored to have the opportunity to return to aviation and lead the professional Soldiers of 1st Battalion, 207th Aviation Regiment,” said Edwards.

Edwards is a graduate of the Ordnance Officer Basic Course, Aviation Officer Basic Course, Aviation Officer Advanced Course, Human Resource Management Qualification Course and the Army Command and General Staff Officers Course.

Seymour received the Meritorious Service Medal and was inducted into the Order of Saint Michael during the ceremony.

Edwards had her family in attendance at the change of command ceremony. Her husband, Chief Warrant 4 Michael Edwards, and their children Ryker and Willow.