News

KRDA Names Col. Lance O’Bryan as Incoming President/CEO

March 20, 2024 By krda

Today, Knox Regional Development Alliance (KRDA) announced the selection of retired Col. Lance O’Bryan as President/CEO, beginning November 1, 2024.

O’Bryan brings a wealth of military experience that includes three assignments at Fort Knox, most notably serving as the Fort Knox Garrison Commander from 2021 to 2023. As Garrison Commander, O’Bryan’s role was akin to being a city manager for the installation, which has a daytime population of more than 26,000 people.

O’Bryan will succeed retired Brig. Gen. Jim Iacocca, who announced his intention to retire from the role last year to spend more time with his family. Iacocca has led the organization since 2018.

The KRDA board cited O’Bryan’s understanding of Fort Knox’s inner workings, coupled with his strong working relationships both on and off post, as some of the many reasons they chose him to be the next leader of KRDA.

KRDA board chairwoman and WesBanco Bank City President for the Heartland Region of Kentucky, Marilyn Ford, called O’Bryan the ideal successor to Iacocca.

“While Lance’s experience and knowledge most certainly stood out to the selection committee, it was also his passion for Fort Knox and our community that set him apart. Fort Knox was his number one choice for his command assignment and he chose to call our community home upon retiring from the Army,” Ford said. “We are so blessed to have yet another amazing military leader help us promote and protect the largest economic engine for our region.”

In addition to Garrison Command, O’Bryan held previous assignments on Fort Knox at the now deactivated 3/1 Brigade Combat Team as well as U.S. Army Human Resources Command. His military career also included deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan as well as assignments with U.S. Africa Command, the Army staff at the Pentagon, and another Garrison command in Okinawa, Japan.

“Words cannot adequately express how excited I am to take on this role,” said O’Bryan. “I have a passion for Fort Knox and there is no better defense community in the country than here in the Greater Fort Knox Region.”

O’Bryan will join the KRDA team in September for a two-month transition with Iacocca, whose official retirement is Nov 1.

“I am confident that Lance will lead the organization with dedication and vision, ensuring continued success for the Fort Knox community,” said Iacocca. “Lance is a proven leader with a keen understanding of Fort Knox’s importance and I look forward to working with him as I transition from my role.”

With a workforce of over 22,000, Fort Knox is the region’s largest contributor of local payroll dollars and economic impact, with $1.3 billion in annual payroll and a $5.6 billion economic impact. As a community-based non-profit, KRDA’s mission is to protect and promote Fort Knox to increase its economic impact on the Greater Fort Knox Region and the state of Kentucky.

“We are thrilled to welcome Lance and eagerly anticipate witnessing how his wealth of experience will guide KRDA into the future, building upon Jim’s achievements in enhancing Fort Knox’s economic influence,” said Ford.

Barbara Proffitt named Greater Fort Knox Defense Community Champion

January 26, 2024 By krda

KRDA honors ‘Pie Lady’ at annual meeting featuring Recruiting, Post Commanding General

During their annual meeting, the Knox Regional Development Alliance (KRDA) honored Barbara Proffitt with the second annual Greater Fort Knox Region Defense Community Champion award from the Association of Defense Communities (ADC). This achievement also means Proffitt is nominated for the national award, which will be presented to winners at the ADC National Summit in Washington D.C. this April.

“Barbara’s recognition as the Greater Fort Knox Region Defense Community Champion speaks volumes about her commitment to Fort Knox and the surrounding community,” said KRDA CEO Jim Iacocca. “Her welcoming spirit and dedication to Fort Knox Soldiers and their families sets an inspiring standard for us all.”

Affectionately known as the”pie lady,” Proffitt is beloved for her pecan delicacies that she bakes for every incoming and outgoing Fort Knox leader, in addition to the countless pies she’s gifted to Soldiers returning from deployments.

Alongside her late husband Ronnie, an Air Force veteran, Proffitt also hosted community partnership dinners on their family farm, fostering positive relationships between Fort Knox and the Greater Fort Knox Region. During her career with Baptist Health Hardin, she played a pivotal role in spearheading an adopt-a-platoon program for deployed soldiers.

Installation leaders selected her among the inaugural group of Fort Knox Gold Neighbors, an exclusive group of community leaders who go above and beyond in their support to Soldiers and families, who are invited to all major Fort Knox events.

It is an honor she takes very seriously even after retiring from her role as the community/guest relations coordinator for Baptist Health Hardin (then known as Hardin Memorial Hospital) in 2018. To this day, she remains a cherished and familiar presence at Fort Knox events and ceremonies.

Proffitt has also been active in several community organizations, such as the Radcliff Woman’s Club, the Vine Grove Woman’s Club, United Way of Central Kentucky, the Fort Knox Spouses and Community Club, the Hardin County Chamber of Commerce and the North Hardin High School boys’ basketball team.

“Receiving this award is truly humbling. I’ve always believed in the power of community and giving back,” said Proffitt. “It’s an honor to be recognized for doing what I love – supporting Fort Knox, our Soldiers and their families.”

Maj. Gen. Johnny Davis, Commanding General of U.S. Army Recruiting Command and Fort Knox, served as the guest speaker for the annual meeting, updating members on the state of recruiting and his outlook for Fort Knox’s future.

“It’s a privilege to address our local leaders and continue to foster the relationship between Fort Knox and our surrounding communities,” Maj. Gen. Davis said. “Our installation’s neighbors have long supported our Servicemembers and their families, welcoming them with open arms. As Fort Knox continues to grow and adapt to meet the needs of the Army and the Nation, this relationship will be more important than ever.”

During the meeting, Iacocca celebrated Fort Knox’s growing strategic value with Recruiting being elevated to a 3-star command and highlighted the anticipated opening of the Digital Air Ground Integration Range (DAGIR) – the only one of its kind east of the Mississippi. He also highlighted KRDA’s work to promote and protect the installation. KRDA board members – including Baptist Health Hardin president Rob Ramey, who replaced Baptist Health Hardin vice president and chief development officer Tracee Troutt, and Steve Laick, who is filling an ex officio position on the board in his role with the Fort Knox AUSA chapter – were also welcomed during the meeting.

“We proactively highlight what sets Fort Knox apart, from its ranges and training areas to its energy resilience, to our welcoming supportive community,” said Iacocca. “We also make sure to advocate for support where it’s needed, be it infrastructure investments, healthcare capacity on post, or fostering greater understanding and support off post, KRDA is committed to doing all we can to keep Fort Knox strong.”

Iacocca showcased the community-driven promotion of the U.S. Army Cadet Command Junior ROTC Raider Challenge National Competition as a testament to their support. Previously held in Georgia, the November event brought hundreds of high school JROTC teams and thousands of cadets and their families to the Greater Fort Knox Region.

“KRDA’s commitment to Fort Knox’s economic vitality is unwavering,” said KRDA Board Chair Marilyn Ford. “The developments and initiatives discussed today demonstrate our dedication to supporting the region’s growth and viability.”

To learn more about KRDA and its leadership, visit growknox.org.

Knox Regional Development Alliance promotes region to Raider Challenge Visitors

October 5, 2023 By krda

The Knox Regional Development Alliance (KRDA) is urging area businesses, organizations, and individuals to engage with and welcome community visitors attending the 2023 Junior ROTC National Raider Challenge. Scheduled to take place at Fort Knox from Nov. 2 through 5, the event, previously held in Georgia, is poised to attract more than 8,000 visitors to the region.

Ahead of the event, KRDA has launched a new webpage on the GreaterFortKnox.com website where Raider Challenge visitors can learn more about regional tourism opportunities. On this webpage, local businesses can also post special offerings or exclusive discounts for Raider Challenge guests.

Jim Iacocca, CEO of KRDA, encouraged local businesses and organizations to post their offerings as soon as possible at greaterfortknox.com/raider-challenge.

“This is the first time Fort Knox has hosted the Raider Challenge and we wanted to create an easy way for local businesses to connect with the thousands of visitors coming to the region. We’re asking businesses to post any promotion or special offer they want to highlight using the online form. Someone from KRDA will review these submissions quickly and post them to the website for our guests to see,” he said.

The event invites U.S. Army JROTC teams from across the nation, who will compete in a variety of challenging events, including a 5K Team Run, Cross Country Rescue, Rope Bridge, the Gauntlet, Physical Fitness Team Test, and more.

“Our region boasts a wealth of attractions, from charming local eateries to one-of-a-kind shops and entertainment venues. It’s vital that we showcase our distinctiveness, ensuring that visitors realize they won’t need to venture far to enjoy their time at Fort Knox, said Iacocca.”

“Whether through exclusive discounts or promotions, extending a warm reception to these visitors will prove exceptionally beneficial for our local businesses and organizations.”

KRDA begins search for new President/CEO in advance of Iacocca’s December 2024 retirement

October 2, 2023 By krda

ELIZABETHTOWN, Ky (Oct 2, 2023) – The Knox Regional Development Alliance (KRDA) has announced it is searching for a new President/CEO in advance of the retirement of current President/CEO Jim Iacocca, who has announced his intention to retire from the role to spend more time with his family, effective at the end of December 2024. The announcement and the resulting transition timeline are intended to provide KRDA ample time to complete a search of candidates and successfully transition to the onboarding of Iacocca’s successor.

KRDA will accept applications for the role of President/CEO now through Dec. 31, 2023, with a search committee slated to conduct interviews in early 2024. Prospective candidates must possess prior experience as a U.S. Army officer, specifically at the rank of Colonel, General Officer, or nominative Command Sergeant Major. A comprehensive list of qualifications and duties required of the next KRDA President/CEO, along with an application form for the position, is available at growknox.org/ceosearch.

With a workforce of over 22,000, Fort Knox is the region’s largest contributor of local payroll dollars and economic impact, with $1.3 billion in annual payroll and a $4.8 billion economic impact. As a community-based nonprofit, KRDA’s mission is to protect and promote Fort Knox to increase its economic impact on the Greater Fort Knox Region and the state of Kentucky.

“As we embark on this search, we do so with the confidence that KRDA’s strong foundation and commitment from our board, investors, and community will continue to drive our mission forward,” said KRDA Board Chair Marilyn Ford. “Jim’s leadership at KRDA has been nothing short of extraordinary, and though we’re sad to see him go, we are comforted by the fact that he will continue to provide steadfast leadership and guidance for the next 14 months as we transition to a new leader.”

Iacocca is KRDA’s first President/CEO and was selected in October 2017 after a 10-month search process following the organization’s inception. Iacocca began his tenure in January 2018. He is the former Adjutant General of the Army, a position he held in the U.S. Army Human Resources Command at Fort Knox. Iacocca’s Army career included multiple assignments at Fort Knox, including former Deputy Commanding General of U.S. Army Recruiting Command and former Brigade Commander for the Army’s 3rd Recruiting Brigade.

In addition to his experience at Fort Knox, Iacocca served at multiple installations including Fort Bragg, North Carolina, with the 82nd Airborne Division and Army Special Operations Command, deploying to both Afghanistan and Iraq. He also served at the Pentagon on the staff for the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

In August 2018, Iacocca was appointed as Chair of the Kentucky Commission on Military Affairs.

“I can confidently say that my successor will take the helm of an organization with a clear mission, track record of success, a firm financial position, strong ties with the community, an extremely capable vice president, and most importantly, a committed board of directors and investors,” said Iacocca. “Though my official retirement date is still some time away, I want to express my sincere gratitude for the opportunities afforded through this role and for the opportunity to serve this wonderful community.”

Cadet Summer Training Brings Thousands to Fort Knox

July 27, 2023 By krda

Cadets from 5th Regiment, Advanced Camp graduate at Fort Knox Ky., July 24, 2023. Specific Cadets were given awards for various achievements throughout Advanced Camp. | Photo by Emily Hudson, Murray State University, Public Affairs Office

This summer, thousands of additional personnel and visitors will be in the Fort Knox area as part of Cadet Summer Training (CST) missions and activities. As such, higher traffic volume is anticipated, especially on days when CST Family Days and graduations are held. Everyone is asked to exercise patience and plan accordingly for longer-than-normal wait times at the entrance gates.

CST graduations are open to the public for attendance. Graduations are held at Brooks Field, while those ceremonies moved indoors, due to inclement weather, will be held at Natcher Gym. In addition, all graduation ceremonies will be live streamed on ArmyROTC Facebook and on the @ArmyROTC YouTube channel.

Everyone coming to Fort Knox, KY for graduation will need either a valid military ID or a visitors pass. Visitors to Fort Knox without a valid military ID can pre-register for a 5-Day FastPASS or visit the Visitor’s Center to obtain a Visitor’s Pass. All adults (18+) must possess a valid ID.

Advanced Camp Graduation Dates:

6th Regiment: Saturday, July 29, 2023, at 8 a.m.
7th Regiment: Thursday, August 3, 2023, at 8 a.m.
8th Regiment: Tuesday, August 8, 2023, at 8 a.m.
9th Regiment: Sunday, August 13, 2023 at 8 a.m.
10th Regiment: Friday, August 18, 2023 at 8 a.m.

Basic Camp Graduation Dates:

2nd Regiment: Sunday, August 6, 2023, at 8 a.m.
3rd Regiment: Wednesday, August 16, 2023, at 8 a.m.

Fort Knox – a Multifaceted Installation

March 31, 2023 By krda

For more than a century, our region has been home to Fort Knox, and our rich history is intrinsically linked to the Army installation. For decades, the 110,000-acre installation had been the home of Armor, and today there are countless veterans and retirees in our community who represent that Armor heritage.

The 2005 Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) saw the Armor Center and School move to Fort Benning, Georgia and several new missions arrived on post. While the Armor Center’s departure was met with some understandable disappointment, Fort Knox’s importance to our national defense, its strategic value and its regional economic impact has only grown since then. Today, Fort Knox is home to multifaceted missions with global impact.

For example, V Corps Headquarters is one of only four corps headquarters in the entire Army. Commanded by a Lieutenant General (3-star), V Corps is responsible for command and control of all Army forces in Europe. They have a forward operating headquarters in Poland, and have been particularly focused in support of NATO allies following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Additionally, Fort Knox’s 1st Theater Sustainment Command provides logistical operations for the military in the Middle East, where the unit regularly has Soldiers deployed.

Fort Knox is also the strategic center of human capital management for the Army with three major commands focused on talent attraction, development and management located here:

U.S. Army Human Resources Command provides human capital management for every Soldier in the United States Army. It is the largest human capital management organization in the country, if not the world.
U.S. Army Recruiting Command oversees the recruitment of the entire active duty and Army reserve enlisted force. The command has recruiters stationed all over the country, providing young men and women countless career opportunities and the honor to serve this great nation.
U.S. Army Cadet Command oversees College Army Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) programs and all high school Junior ROTC programs. The college ROTC programs are responsible for the development and commissioning of 70 percent of the newly-commissioned officers the Army adds each year.

Cadet Command also hosts the Army’s largest annual training exercise at Fort Knox – Cadet Summer Training (CST). Upwards of 15,000 college ROTC cadets and instructors come to Fort Knox each year for CST.

Because of these strategic commands, Fort Knox also piloted the Army’s new Command Assessment Program (CAP) and is now the permanent home of this new evaluation process that determines which leaders are best suited for command positions.

Other critical missions at Fort Knox include First Army Division East, which is responsible for training and mobilizing all Army Reserve units in the Eastern United States.

The 19th Engineer Battalion, also located at Fort Knox, is the largest engineer battalion in the Army and a Corps level asset of the XVIII Airborne Corps.

As for Army Reserve Commands, Fort Knox is the headquarters for all Army Reserve Aviation in the country. Additionally, the 100th Training Division and the 84th Training Command provide critical training and leadership development for Army reserve Soldiers.

Lastly, Medical Department Activity (MEDDAC) Fort Knox provides health and dental care services to Soldiers and their family members stationed at Fort Knox and also oversees facilities at Bluegrass Army Depot in Richmond, Kentucky; Camp Atterbury, Indiana; Warren, Michigan; and Camp Grayling, Michigan.

As you can see, the missions at Fort Knox have a strategic impact and global reach. A workforce of approximately 22,000 Soldiers, Department of the Army civilians and contractors support these missions each day, making it one of the largest employers in Kentucky and the largest in our region. The post’s annual economic impact is approximately $4.8 billion, including $1.3 billion in annual payroll.

At KRDA, we are committed to making sure our community does all it can to support Fort Knox, ensuring this regional economic engine and premier military installation is strong and well-positioned for growth.

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