TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – With Maj. Gen. Emmett Titshaw preparing to retire after nearly five years in the post, Gov. Rick Scott on Wednesday named Michael Calhoun to serve as adjutant general of the Florida National Guard.
Calhoun, a brigadier general who enlisted in the National Guard in 1977, will move into the top position March 29. Titshaw, who became adjutant general in June 2010, will retire at the end of March.
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"Brigadier General Calhoun has selflessly served our country for more than 30 years and has proven his commitment to his fellow military men, women and families here in Florida,'' Scott said in a prepared statement announcing the appointment. "I am confident he will continue to serve our National Guard well and be an effective leader during any emergency event that may affect our state as the next adjutant general of Florida."
Calhoun, who is the National Guard's director of the Joint Staff, has held a series of command roles and has received honors such as being awarded the Bronze Star Medal.
He will move into the adjutant general's role at a time when Scott and other state leaders have focused heavily on military and veteran issues. As an example, lawmakers last year passed what is known as the "Florida GI Bill," which included university tuition waivers for veterans and money for upgrades at National Guard facilities.
Along with being prepared for combat missions, the National Guard also plays a key role during emergencies such as hurricanes. As adjutant general, Calhoun will oversee the Florida Army National Guard and the Florida Air National Guard.
"Our state is stronger because of the service of the Florida National Guard, and we will remain dedicated to supporting and safeguarding Florida's families and communities," Calhoun, a graduate of Florida A&M University, said in a statement issued by the governor's office.
Titshaw enlisted in the Air National Guard in 1970 and held a number of leadership roles before taking over as adjutant general in 2010, according to information on the National Guard website.