Army Lt. Gen. Daniel Hokanson received his fourth star and assumed responsibility for the National Guard Bureau during a ceremony today at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall in Arlington, Virginia. Secretary of Defense Dr. Mark T. Esper presided and also promoted Hokanson to general.
"As you take the helm, know that we have full faith and confidence in your abilities," said Esper. "The vision and acumen you have demonstrated throughout your career will serve you well as you lead the Guard into the future."
Hokanson is the fourth chief of the National Guard Bureau to serve as a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, which Congress elevated the chief of the National Guard Bureau to a four- star position in 2012.
"I am humbled for the honor to continue serving the citizens of our great country," said Hokanson. "The men and women who serve in the National Guard, supported by their families and employers, will always be my highest priority. I look forward to working with our National Guard Bureau staff to support the 54 States, Territories, and District of Columbia."
Hokanson succeeds retiring Air Force Gen. Joseph L. Lengyel, who began executing duties of the CNGB four years ago today.
"I have been a proud witness of the remarkable work the men and the women of the National Guard carry out every day," said Lengyel. "You are an indispensable part of the warfighting force."
Hokanson was confirmed by the U.S. Senate July 21. As the highest-ranking officer in the nation’s oldest military force, he assumes responsibility for ensuring the National Guard is manned, trained and equipped to respond whenever and wherever needed.
"You always have my full support, admiration and gratitude," said Esper. "No matter the challenge, the Guard is always ready, always there, thanks in no small part to great leaders like General Joe Lengyel and now General Dan Hokanson, who will carry on that legacy in the years ahead."
https://www.defense.gov/Explore/News/Article/Article/2297733/defense-secretary-hosts-change-of-responsibility-ceremony/
National Guard continues to protect, support communities
More than 29,700 National Guard soldiers and airmen are supporting domestic operations across the United States at the direction of their governors as of Monday morning. This includes support to COVID-19, civil disturbance, and other homeland missions.
"Right now more than 65,000 Guard members are executing DOD missions at home and abroad, including thousands working hand in hand with local authorities across the streets of America to meet the needs of their communities," said Esper. "Our nation is safer, stronger and more secure due to their dedication to their fellow Americans."
Nearly 25,000 National Guardsmen in all 50 states, three territories and the District of Columbia are supporting civilian agencies with COVID-19 missions. They continue to focus on testing and screening, as well as providing logistical support through warehousing and distribution of medical supplies and food.
"This is an important and pivotal time in the history of our National Guard," said Hokanson. "We have never been busier or more visible, and our missions have never been so complex or important."
For information regarding this press release, please send an email to the National Guard Bureau Media Operations desk at ng.ncr.ngb-arng.mesg.ngb-media-desk-owner@mail.mil.