Dr. Richard C. Strickland, who worked for the Department of Defense Dependents Schools system for 36 years before retiring in 1991, died this month in Huntingdon, England. He was 81.

Strickland taught at elementary schools in Spain and Germany beginning in the 1950s and later served as a school principal in both countries. He was curriculum coordinator for two DODDS districts from 1972 until his retirement.

Strickland died July 11 after a stroke. He is survived by his wife, Beverly, sons Andrew and John, daughter Sally VanGeison and three granddaughters. Funeral services were private.

1-94 welcomes commanderIDAR OBERSTEIN, Germany — The 1st Battalion, 94th Field Artillery welcomed a new commander Friday at a change-of-command ceremony in Idar-Oberstein, Germany.

Lt. Col. Thomas S. Matsel succeeded Lt. Col. Patrick B. Hogan, who departed for a new assignment in Hohenfels. Hogan, 42, had commanded the battalion the past two years.

The 42-year-old Matsel’s previous assignments include stints at Fort Riley, Kan.; Fort Sill, Okla.; Fort Carson, Colo.; Camp Stanley, South Korea; and the Pentagon.

Matsel holds a master’s degree in public administration from the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University and is a recipient of the Bronze Star, the fourth highest award for bravery, heroism or meritorious service.

The 1-94 is the Multiple Launch Rocket System and Target Acquisition Battalion for the 1st Armored Division.

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