WASHINGTON — Chief Warrant Officer 5 Bernard Aguon, who has served as the State Command Chief Warrant Officer, or CCWO, for the District of Columbia National Guard since 2024, has been selected as the next Army National Guard Command Chief Warrant Officer at the National Guard Bureau. He will succeed Chief Warrant Officer 5 Brian Searcy.
Brig. Gen. Leland D. Blanchard II, commanding general (interim) of the D.C. National Guard, said Aguon’s selection reflects both his talent and modernization.
“This speaks to CW5 Aguon’s depth, breadth, background, experience and every assignment that continues to build him up. This also speaks to the D.C. National Guard and those who have served in our formation,” Blanchard said. “Warrant officers have a significant part in the transformation and modernization efforts of the National Guard. Whether it’s equipment, weapon systems or communications, we are making transformative leaps, and the warrant officers corps is vital.”
Brig. Gen. Craig M. Maceri, Land Component Command commander, echoed those sentiments, noting Aguon’s proven record of success.
“The D.C. National Guard’s complex operational environment and unique mission sets demanded innovative problem-solving skills from CW5 Aguon — skills he consistently demonstrated,” Maceri said. “His adaptability and collaborative spirit make him ideally suited for this national role. His leadership will be a valuable asset to the National Guard Bureau enterprise as he assumes these expanded responsibilities.”
Aguon called the move an opportunity to broaden his impact while ensuring the Guard remains ready and relevant. He also believes readiness is the cornerstone of the Guard’s mission. He has worked to align talent management with operational demands, helping Soldiers prepare for everything from domestic response missions in the nation’s capital to overseas deployments.
“Our mandate is to be capable, ready and efficient...prepared to defend against all enemies, foreign and domestic,” he shared.
That readiness, he added, is tied directly to the Guard’s lethality. As the Army adapts to cyber, space and other emerging domains, warrant officers are essential for sustaining the technical and tactical edge needed to win.
Military excellence, Aguon also noted, has guided his leadership style throughout his 36-year career. Known for his approachable manner, he has consistently encouraged younger warrant officers to ask questions, pursue education and develop strong communication skills. His message to the next generation has been simple: Focus on daily improvement while striving for long-term success.
“You can plan for the future, but you have to live in the present,” he said. “Give 110 percent each day.”
Aguon has also advanced professional development through initiatives such as the Title 10/Title 32 swap program, within the Army Guard, which allows Guard members to broaden their experience at the national level and return with a valuable perspective. He has promoted the program as a way to build more capable organizations, particularly in smaller states and territories.
He also said the transition to a national role will not erase his ties to the District. Aguon said he will always consider himself a Capital Guardian and credits his time in Washington with deepening his appreciation for the Guard’s unique history and people.
“From senior leaders to brand new privates, it’s been an awesome experience,” he said. “They’ve welcomed me, and I feel like part of the D.C. family.”
Though he will miss working daily with the Guard in the capital, Aguon said he is eager to help shape the future of the Army National Guard from his new post.
“I’m not going too far, just to a different location,” he said. “I’ll always be cheering on the D.C. Guard.”
His last day is Oct. 31.