Fort Sill commander allegedly fired for violating post hunting rule

Major General Kenneth Kamper, an artillery officer, and former deputy commanding general for the III Armoured Corps, took over as the commander of Fort Sill in February 2020. His tenure was marked by a focus on maintaining the base’s status as a premier training facility, particularly in the realm of long-range artillery training.

Maj. Gen. Kenneth Kamper had led the Oklahoma post, which includes the Fires Center of Excellence, since March 2020, according to the Army.https://t.co/0lhz2WkxaE

— Stars and Stripes (@starsandstripes) June 15, 2023

However, Kamper’s command was cut short as he was suspended in February amid allegations of repeatedly violating hunting rules established on the base. The nature and specifics of the alleged violations have not been publicly disclosed, pending the completion of the investigation. Nonetheless, the severity of the allegations led to the decision to relieve Kamper from his command position.

Fort Sill, home to approximately 20,000 troops, serves as the Army’s premier training ground for long-range artillery operations. The base’s role in training soldiers for conventional warfare is expected to become increasingly vital in the coming years, as the military shifts its focus away from counterterrorism efforts.

Since the beginning of 2023, Fort Sill has been hosting Ukrainian troops for specialized training on the Patriot missile system, making it the only such training conducted in the country. This program has been a cornerstone of the military partnership between the United States and Ukraine, enhancing the capabilities and readiness of the Ukrainian armed forces while strengthening bilateral relations.

Sources familiar with the investigation have assured that Major General Kamper’s termination is unrelated to the Ukrainian training program and should not disrupt its operations. Army spokesperson Cynthia Smith confirmed that neither the investigation nor the leadership change will disrupt the base’s activities.

As Fort Sill moves forward, Brigadier General Shane Morgan, the deputy commander of the base’s field artillery school, will assume the role of interim commander until a permanent replacement for Kamper is selected. This transition of leadership aims to ensure continuity and stability within the base’s structure.