KAILUA-KONA >> The Pohakuloa Training Area has a new commander.

Lt. Col. Rolland C. Niles took command of the U.S. Army’s Big Island training complex today from Lt. Col. Warline Richardson.

Niles served as 17th Fires Brigade deputy commanding officer in Iraq and most recently was stationed at Fort Lewis, Wash.

Niles says he looks forward to providing troops the best and most realistic training possible, as well as serving as a good steward of the land and culture.

Col. Douglas Mulbury said Richardson was a popular commander who strengthened the Army’s relationship with Big Island communities.

Pohakuloa Training Area covers 134,000 acres of wilderness in the center of the Big Island, hosts 18,000 troops each year and has a $20 million operating budget.