retire next summer, Government announced yesterday.

Col. Rance, who has held his post since November of 1990, is to relinquish his command next May or June. His successor as Commanding Officer is to be Major David A. Burch.

Major Burch joined the Regiment in 1977, was commissioned in 1980, and was promoted to Captain in 1985. In 1988 he reached the rank of Major, and was named Second-in-Command in 1990.

He commanded B Company from 1985 to 1988 and Training Company from 1989 to 1990.

Educated at West End and Sandys Secondary schools and employed in international insurance, Major Burch has attended officer training schools at the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst and the School of Infantry, Warminster.

Major Patrick M. Outerbridge, Company Commander of Support Company, is to succeed Major Burch as Second-in-Command.