New top commander of Aberdeen Proving Ground formally takes the helm

Aberdeen Proving Ground welcomed a new top commander Friday.

Brig. Gen. James Turinetti IV officially took his place as commander of U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Command and senior commander of Harford County’s largest employer and key military installation from Maj. Gen. Edmonson, who held the post since August 2021.

Turinetti’s most recent assignment was as the Director for J-6 U.S. Central Command at MacDill Air Force Base in Florida. Turinetti has served 30 years with the Army and previously deployed to support Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraq Freedom.

“The world is a messy dangerous place, but we need leaders like Jim that understand how to lead through very complex scenarios,” said Lieutenant General Christopher Mohan at the ceremony. “He knows how to keep an organization moving forward. He understands the outputs he needs to achieve. He understands how to lead soldiers, civilians and contractors because we are all human beings who have roles.”

The assumption of command is a 249-year tradition for the Army, one marked with the presentation of a red and yellow banner from the acting commander to the new commander.

Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Conaty acted as senior commander after the retirement of Edmonson on June 7. Conaty handed CECOM’s banner to Turinetti, formally relinquishing command to him.

Turnetti said he’s looking to make the most of his time at APG as he gets up to speed on what has been in the works for the community. As he senses the momentum of the base, he hopes to support the armed forces’ readiness and ensure the future army’s transformation is sustainable.

“I am truly humbled and honored to serve as the 18th commander of this fine organization,” Turinetti said. “I am looking forward to leading the team in supporting the readiness of our armed forces.”