New Salvation Army commanders make history
Media contact: Julie Borgen, Twin Cities media relations director
Roseville, Minn.- The Salvation Army welcomes Lt. Colonels Lonneal and Patty Richardson as new divisional commanders for Minnesota and North Dakota.
The leaders are the first African Americans to serve in that capacity in the Central Territory of the United States (serving Minnesota, Wisconsin, North & South Dakota, Michigan, Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, Illinois and Indiana), and only the second in the nation.
“We are a diverse nation–the Twin Cities are a perfect example of that,” said Colonel Lonneal.”We have a strong urban ministry focus and plan.”
As Salvation Army leaders in St. Louis, the Richardsons were on the front lines of the rioting in Ferguson, following the death of Michael Brown.
“I was personally involved in a conference call with the White House as they were dealing with what was happening there,” Colonel Lonneal explained. “The Salvation Army played an important role there in not only providing for the people affected, but in serving as a bridge builder between law enforcement and the community.”
The colonels believe their experience and the Salvation Army are particularly needed in the Twin Cities right now, given recent events.
“Race relations and economic disparities–these are difficult conversations. But who better to be at the table than The Salvation Army?” Colonel Patty asked. “We have to be an army that’s inclusive and reflects our communities.”
The Richardson’s have taken over command of the Northern Division, after serving more than two decades as Salvation Army officers. They are have three sons and are the proud grandparents of one granddaughter.