From left, Maj. Gen. Michael Lalor, Gen. Christoper Donahue and Maj. Gen. Ronald Ragin moments after Ragin turned over to Lalor the reins of the 21st Theater Sustainment Command at a ceremony in Sembach, Germany, on July 30, 2025. (DVIDS screenshot)

Leadership of a Kaiserslautern-based U.S. Army command that serves as the linchpin for sustaining soldiers across Europe changed hands Wednesday.

Maj. Gen. Michael Lalor replaced Maj. Gen. Ronald Ragin, who led the 21st Theater Sustainment Command for the past two years.

The mission of the Army’s top logistics command in Europe has grown over the years. It supports everything from larger troop rotations along NATO’s eastern flank to operations aimed at facilitating the flow of arms to Ukraine for its war against Russia.

Lalor comes to his new role after a two-year stint as the commander of the Army’s Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command in Warren, Mich.

“We are going to think, act, take prudent risk and operate decisively to achieve effects,” Lalor said.

Ragin’s next assignment will be at U.S. Army Europe and Africa headquarters in Wiesbaden, where he will serve as chief of staff, Gen. Christopher Donahue said during Wednesday’s change of command ceremony.

Donahue’s advice for the incoming Lalor was to not wait around for directions from higher headquarters when in a pinch.

“Attack everything that you need to do. If you cannot find me, if you cannot get any guidance, you know what to do. Move out,” Donahue said. “I know you will do the right thing. Do not wait on orders. Execute.”