EDINBURGH – Camp Atterbury, the sprawling Indiana National Guard base that covers parts of Bartholomew, Johnson, and Brown counties, has officially welcomed a new commander.
The Indiana National Guard announced a change of command ceremony was held Sunday, where Col. Daniel Bell formally received command of the installation from outgoing garrison commander Col. James Babbit.
The ceremony signifies the formal transfer of authority and responsibility for the command of the base, a crucial training and mobilization center for the armed forces.
Col. Bell brings a wealth of experience and a deep local connection to his new role.
Bell is a native of Spencer, Indiana, and began his service career by enlisting in the Indiana National Guard in 1997. He received his commission in 1999 upon graduating from the Indiana Officer Candidate School. Bell holds a bachelor’s degree from Marian University, along with master’s degrees from the Indiana Institute of Technology and the U.S. Army War College.
Col. Bell is no stranger to Camp Atterbury, having previously served on the base in various capacities, including:
- Commander installation support unit.
- Range management authority/range officer.
- Chief of operations and deputy director of plans, training, and mobilization.
- He also previously served as Commander of the 138th Regiment Training Institute.
During the ceremony, outgoing commander Col. James Babbit was recognized for his dedicated service since assuming command in September 2023.
Indiana National Guard Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. Larry Muennich, presented Col. Babbit with the Indiana Distinguished Service Medal in recognition of his leadership and commitment to the installation.
The Indiana National Guard expressed gratitude for Babbit’s service and confidence in Bell’s ability to lead the training center into its next phase.
