Air Force Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, praised the leadership and achievements of outgoing Chief of the National Guard Bureau Army Gen. Daniel Hokanson during a ceremony at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall in Arlington, Virginia. Brown commended Hokanson for his exceptional leadership and transformative accomplishments during his tenure as the chief of the National Guard Bureau. Hokanson’s efforts since 2020 have led to over 50 legislative initiatives focused on key priorities such as people, readiness, modernization, and reform. Brown highlighted several achievements under Hokanson’s leadership, including responses to natural disasters, COVID-19 relief efforts, overseas mobilizations, and the evacuation of Afghan civilians in 2021.
Brown described Hokanson as a citizen soldier who epitomizes the spirit of duty and service to defend the country and uphold its freedoms. He praised Hokanson’s strategic vision, steadfast leadership, and tireless advocacy for leaving a lasting impact on the National Guard and national security. In his farewell remarks, Hokanson credited the accomplishments of the National Guard to its soldiers and airmen, emphasizing that their service, sacrifices, and the support of their families were instrumental in achieving success. After 38 years of service in the Army and National Guard, Hokanson expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve alongside dedicated individuals committed to upholding the National Guard’s motto of being “Always ready, always there.”
The relinquishment of responsibility ceremony marked the formal retirement of Gen. Daniel Hokanson, following his successful term as the 29th chief of the National Guard Bureau. Hokanson’s leadership was instrumental in guiding the National Guard through various challenges and ensuring its readiness to respond to crises at home and abroad. Under his tenure, the National Guard demonstrated its capabilities in disaster response, healthcare support, and overseas operations, reflecting the organization’s commitment to serving the nation with professionalism and dedication. Hokanson’s farewell remarks highlighted the National Guard’s values of innovation, adaptability, preparedness, and professionalism, reinforcing its mission to uphold its promise to America as a reliable and effective defense force.
The ceremony at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall honored Gen. Daniel Hokanson’s distinguished career and contributions to the National Guard Bureau. Hokanson’s legacy of leadership, service, and dedication to the organization and its members was recognized by military officials, colleagues, and fellow service members. As Hokanson transitions into retirement, his impact on the National Guard and the broader military community will be remembered as a testament to his commitment to excellence and the values that define the National Guard’s role in safeguarding the nation’s security. The ceremony celebrated Hokanson’s legacy and the enduring spirit of service that defines the National Guard as a vital component of the nation’s defense capabilities.
