Commanding General Georgia Army National Guard

This weekend, I had the privilege of recognizing outstanding leadership and a remarkable organization as we marked the transition of command within the 201st.

Congratulations to COL Rowell and CSM Deal on a highly successful command tenure. Your leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence have strengthened the formation and left a lasting impact on the Soldiers and families of this brigade. The work you have done has not only elevated the organization, but has directly contributed to our readiness and our ability to defend this nation.

As they pass the colors to COL McDougald and CSM Bentley, I am confident the 201st will continue to build on that strong foundation and reach even greater heights.

During my visit, I had the opportunity to see firsthand the exceptional training taking place across the formation. From EOD Soldiers employing advanced robotics and honing bomb disposal techniques, to units conducting gas chamber refresher training, to teams executing patrol lanes and refining their order dissemination processes—this brigade is clearly focused on what matters most: building lethal, disciplined, and capable warfighters.

Well done to all involved!

This week, I had the distinct honor of observing the formidable Warfighters of the 1-121 Infantry Battalion, 48th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, during their "Spartan Week" exercise at Fort Stewart. Witnessing these Soldiers in action reaffirmed a fundamental truth: the strength of our Georgia Army National Guard lies in our People.

From the disciplined ex*****on of day and night live-fire exercises by the line companies to the impressive analog battlefield management conducted by HHC in an austere environment, the 1-121 IN demonstrated the essence of our Warfighting priority. They are building lethal, cohesive teams forged in the crucible of realistic training, ensuring our formations are always ready.

This rigorous training is about more than just mastering current tasks; it is about Leading Change and winning the future fight. By honing their proficiency in challenging, real-world conditions, these Soldiers are preparing to face any adversary, anywhere, under any condition. They are the embodiment of readiness, and their unwavering commitment ensures that your Georgia Army National Guard remains a lethal force, prepared to answer our State and Nation's call.

Yesterday, I had the honor and privilege to join the State Adjutant General and my counterparts in the Air Guard and State Defense Force visit the Georgia State Senate and House of Representatives to celebrate our successes and accomplishments. To Georgia Army National Guard, thank you for all you do. To the state of Georgia thank you for your support!

Please join me in congratulating MSG Jerome Rademacher on his retirement after an extraordinary 42 years of dedicated service, including 30 remarkable years in the Georgia Army National Guard.

His career is a testament to commitment, professionalism, and an unwavering devotion to our state and nation. Even more inspiring is the legacy he has built. All three of his sons currently serve in the Georgia Army National Guard, continuing a tradition of service that speaks volumes about his example, his values, and the impact he has made both at home and in uniform.

To MSG(R) Rademacher, thank you for your decades of sacrifice, leadership, and steadfast service. And to the entire Rademacher family—thank you for answering the call and standing shoulder to shoulder in support of our Guard and our mission.

As we move through this season of gratitude, I’d like to take a moment to recognize the extraordinary dedication of our Georgia Guardsmen—especially those who spent Thanksgiving far from home, supporting our mission on the Texas border.

Myself and the State Command Sergeant Major had the privilege of visiting the 1230th Transportation Company, the 277th and 877th Engineer Companies at the border. Their professionalism, commitment, and quiet resolve speak volumes about who they are and what the National Guard represents. Even when the holidays pull them away from loved ones, they continue to stand the watch.

To every Guardsman who is deployed, mobilized, or otherwise away from family during this holiday season, thank you. Your service is seen, appreciated, and never taken for granted. And to all of our Georgia National Guard members, whether at home or abroad, your dedication is the backbone of everything we accomplish.

As we look ahead to the rest of the holiday season, let’s remember the importance of keeping each other in mind. Check on your battle buddies. A simple message, a shared meal, or a moment of encouragement can make all the difference for someone carrying a heavy load.

This time of year reminds us that we are stronger together. The National Guard is a family. We support, uplift, and look out for one another. I encourage each of you to take care of yourselves, stay connected, and continue to embody the spirit of service that defines our force.

Thank you for all you do for our state and our country. Your sacrifice and service are what make our organization exceptional. Wishing you and your families a safe, meaningful, and hopeful holiday season.

This week I had the opportunity to attend the National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) 147th conference in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It was a valuable chance to connect with our partners across the 54 states and territories, share ideas, and strengthen our community of leaders across the force.

A special congratulations to the 1-118th Field Artillery on receiving the prestigious Reckord Award in recognition of their outstanding readiness and excellence. We are incredibly proud of their achievement and the example they set for the entire Georgia Army National Guard.

Today I had the privilege of visiting Georgia Military College to strengthen our partnership and learn more about the Early Commissioning Program. I was honored to meet with the college president, key staff, and a remarkable group of cadets who represent the future of Army leadership.

Our time together underscored the importance of investing in people and partnerships. These efforts are critical to leading change, developing talent, and ensuring our Army remains ready to fight and win. I am grateful for GMC’s time, hospitality, and commitment to building leaders of character, and I look forward to continuing this important collaboration.

Last week I had the opportunity to travel to Texas with State CSM and the Senior Enlisted Advisor to visit with the 877th Engineer Company and the 277th Support Maintenance Company in Del Rio.

These citizen Soldiers are currently mobilized in support of southwest border operations, working alongside U.S. Border Patrol and units from across the nation. Their efforts have directly contributed to record-setting decreases in unauthorized border crossings—a clear testament to their professionalism, discipline, and unwavering focus on the mission.

Your state and nation stand behind you! We’re deeply proud of their service and the continued sacrifices they and their families make.

Today, SCSM Ballenger and I had the privilege of welcoming and acknowledging three incredible women whose dedication has greatly impacted both the Georgia Guard and our community. Their efforts have made the Kids in Combat program possible—bringing care, comfort, and support to children in pediatric units at CHOA.

We also had the pleasure of receiving a group of future warfighters from Paulding High School JROTC who have enlisted into the Georgia National Guard. I’m excited to serve alongside them in the near future as they help strengthen our force and carry on our mission!

Today, I had the honor of visiting the 48th Infantry Brigade headquarters in Macon, GA for the unveiling of a powerful new memorial and the celebration of the Brigade’s 200th birthday. I was deeply humbled by the incredible turnout—former leaders, veterans, state and community leaders, friends, and family—all gathered to honor the legacy and service of this historic unit.

Most moving of all was the presence of Gold Star family members, representing two of the 48th’s fallen Soldiers. Their strength and sacrifice remind us of the true cost of service and the enduring bonds within our military community. We will never forget.

It was a day of pride, remembrance, and celebration. Here’s to 200 years of courage, service, and tradition in the 48th Infantry Brigade.

Just Friday I returned from a trip to Poland, where I had the privilege of visiting with our very own Georgia National Guard Soldiers supporting theater sustainment operations. I’m incredibly proud of the vital work they’re doing—not only strengthening our partnerships in Europe, but directly supporting the interests and security of the United States.

Their professionalism, dedication, and the experience they’re gaining on this mission are truly impressive. I’m excited for the lessons they’re learning and the leadership they’re developing in this critical environment.

We look forward to welcoming them home safely and celebrating all they’ve accomplished!

Yesterday was a proud moment for the Georgia Army National Guard as we celebrated the official unveiling of the newly renovated Dublin armory, home to A Company, 148th BSB. This transformation reflects our ongoing commitment to modernization and readiness. I sincerely appreciate everyone who contributed to making this project a reality. I am grateful to the representatives from the City of Dublin who joined us and the support they provide. Together, we enhance our capabilities and deepen our connection with the communities we serve.