BG R.J. Garcia ’96 assumed command as the 81st Commandant of Cadets at the U.S. Military Academy during a change of command ceremony on June 14, 2024.
Garcia, who graduated from West Point in 1996, holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the U.S. Military Academy, a Master of Science degree from Kansas State University, and a Master of Strategic Studies degree from the U.S. Army War College.
“It is my honor and privilege to serve as the 81st Commandant of Cadets at our Nation’s first military service academy,” Garcia said. “As the world’s preeminent leadership institution, we will continue to uphold its mission of educating, training, and inspiring cadets to become leaders of character, prepared to serve their country with honor and distinction.”
Originally from San Antonio, Texas, Garcia is a Senior Army Aviator who has earned the Combat Action Badge, the Air Assault Badge, and the Army Staff Badge. His awards and decorations are commensurate with his positions of responsibility and time in service.
He has served in various locations and duty positions across the United States and overseas, to include the 2nd Infantry Division, 4th Infantry Division, 3rd Infantry Division, U.S. Army Human Resources Command, the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence, 1st Cavalry Division, the U.S. Military Academy, 1st Armored Division, the Army Staff, 25th Infantry Division, and U.S. Indo-Pacific Command. Before taking the reins as Commandant of Cadets, he served as deputy commander (support), 25th Infantry Division at Schofield Barracks in Hawaii.
Garcia replaced MG Lori L. Robinson ’94 who will become the commanding general of the U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command in Redstone Arsenal, Ala.
