Twins exchange command at Wyoming National Guard

CHEYENNE, Wyo. - After 35 months in the position, Command Sgt. Maj. Edmundo Herrera passed the guidon to his twin brother, Edwardo Herrera, who will now serve as the new command sergeant major of the Wyoming National Guard Recruiting and Retention Battalion. Edmundo is preparing for deployment to the Middle East.

The event at the Wyoming State Capitol June 27 marked the first time twin brothers in the Wyoming Army National Guard held the same high-ranking position consecutively.

"Edwardo is prepared to recruit and retain future talent, and I have confidence in my brother's abilities to lead the battalion," Edmundo said.

The Herrera brothers' journey began in Cheyenne, where they grew up as first-generation Americans. Edwardo said Edmundo inspired him to join the Army National Guard.

"Edmundo enlisted a couple of years before I did, and I saw how the Wyoming Army National Guard positively impacted his life," Edwardo said. "It made him a better brother, friend and man. I also witnessed his relationships with leaders in the organization and how they were dedicated to developing him. This motivated me and made me want to be a part of something bigger than myself."

The brothers have served together in the 115th Field Artillery Brigade and the Recruiting and Retention Battalion. Their shared experiences have strengthened their bond and their commitment to the Soldiers they lead.

"Serving together has motivated us to be better servant leaders for our Soldiers," Edwardo said. "It has also created opportunities to collaborate and work on solutions for Soldier and organizational issues."

Throughout their careers, Edmundo and Edwardo have been almost neck and neck in rank, fostering a healthy competition that pushed both to excel.

"Soldiers thrive in competition, so we have always pushed each other to do our best," Edwardo said.

Despite their competitive nature, their support for each other has been steady.

Both brothers have achieved notable milestones, including earning the Director's 54 Badge in Recruiting and Retention and participating in the State Partnership Program with Tunisia. These experiences have defined their careers and demonstrated their dedication to the National Guard's mission.

As Edwardo steps into his new role, both brothers are focused on their current responsibilities. Edwardo is prepared to lead the Recruiting and Retention Battalion, while Edmundo is gearing up for a deployment to the Middle East. They both aspire to serve in higher levels of responsibility, potentially competing for positions such as brigade command sergeant major, state command sergeant major, or command senior enlisted leader.

In reflecting on their journey, the brothers emphasized balancing military duties with personal lives.

"We both love cooking, traveling and spending time with our friends and families," Edwardo said. "Having a personal and professional relationship allows us to spend additional time together and lean on each other through challenges."

Their story is a testament to the power of family, dedication and service. Edmundo hopes their journey will inspire others in the military and those considering service.

"I hope our story persuades those interested in serving to take the next step of enlisting," Edmundo said." For current military members, I hope this inspires them to reflect on just how important their service is and the positive impact they can have on those around them."

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