Swoboda new commander of 1137th Military Police Co

First Lt. Nicholas Swoboda, of Jefferson City, has been appointed the new commander for the 1137th Military Police Company in Kennett, Jackson and Doniphan.

KENNETT, Mo. -- First Lt. Nicholas Swoboda, of Jefferson City, has been appointed the new commander for the 1137th Military Police Company in Kennett, Jackson and Doniphan.

During the ceremony, the unit guidon was passed to Swoboda to symbolize the transfer of authority and responsibility.

"I am proud to count myself among the ranks of warrior police and the 1137th Military Police Company," said Swoboda, who has served in the Missouri National Guard since 2002. "This company has some of the best Soldiers this state and nation has to offer. Together, we will achieve our goals and accomplish our missions with vigor, determination and pride."

Swoboda is well-liked by his new Soldiers and staff, who look forward to working with their new commander, said Sgt. 1st Class William Hoxworth, readiness noncommissioned officer for the unit.

"First Lt. Swoboda has served with us for almost four years as a platoon leader and executive officer," said Hoxworth. "He knows how the unit works and what works best for the Soldiers. We'll be a better unit with him as our commander."

Swoboda's extensive experience with the 1137th and as an officer will be great asset to the company and battalion, said Maj. Joy Grimes, executive officer for the 175th Military Police Battalion.

"It was an easy decision to have 1st Lt. Swoboda take command," said Grimes. "He's has the experience, knowledge and motivation to be a good commander. We're expecting great things from him."

Being commander of a unit has been a goal for him since he joined the military, said Swoboda.

"I am extremely honored to have the opportunity to serve as the commander and provide this company with, what I hope to be, unparalleled leadership and guidance," said Swoboda. "I look forward to the time I have been given with the 1137th, and to a future partnership that is determined to be successful in all that we do."

Swoboda has served in the Missouri National Guard since 2002. He deployed with the 1140th Engineer Battalion in 2003-2004 in Baghdad in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. In 2007, he went to Officer Candidate School and commissioned as a military police officer.

For more information about the Missouri National Guard, please call 1-800-GoGuard or visit www.moguard.com.

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