Maj. Gen. Michael McGuire, Arizona National Guard leader, to retire
Mar 5, 2021, 11:14 AM
(KTAR News Photo/Griselda Zetino)
PHOENIX — The leader of the Arizona National Guard and a key figure in the state’s COVID-19 response is retiring, Gov. Doug Ducey announced on Friday.
Maj. Gen. Michael McGuire’s last day as Arizona’s adjutant general and director of the Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs will be April 10, according to a press release.
McGuire was planning to retire last year but continued in his role because of the pandemic.
McGuire has been a fixture alongside other state officials at coronavirus briefings for the past year.
“The last year has been the most humbling and gratifying year of my service to watch the nearly 8,300 soldiers, airmen, and civilians of DEMA prove we are always ready, always there,” McGuire said in the release.
McGuire has held the position of adjutant general since 2013 and has more than 30 years of military experience.
He manages the day-to-day activities of a nearly 8,300-member department that includes Arizona’s Army and Air National Guard, Joint Programs and the Division of Emergency Management.
“Gen. McGuire’s solid leadership and expertise has been critical, especially during the COVID-19 emergency response,” Ducey said in the release. “Arizona is grateful for Gen. McGuire’s exceptional service to the state and nation.”